Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Broken Hill, Australia, where the warm BWh climate can lead to heightened sun exposure and associated risks. Knowledge of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health, especially during peak hours when the UV Index reaches higher values of 6, typically from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. With the sun’s intensity fluctuating throughout the day, being informed about UV risks can empower the community to take necessary precautions and enjoy the outdoors safely.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic fluctuation in sun exposure. Early risers will experience a gentle start, with a maximum UV Index of 1 at 07:00. As the sun ascends, it peaks at 6 during both 11:00 and 12:00, indicating a higher risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following this midday zenith, the index gradually declines, dropping to 4 at 13:00 and falling further to 1 by 15:00, before reaching a comfortable 0 by 17:00 and staying that way until sunset. It's a clear reminder to enjoy the midday sun while being cautious during peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
15:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels demonstrate significant seasonal changes, with extreme values persisting from January to March and again in November and December, where the UV Index reaches up to 15 and the burn time is as brief as 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are therefore January, February, March, October, November, and December. Moving into spring and summer, the UV Index decreases, peaking at 9 in April and September, while May sees a 6, suggesting a transition towards lower levels but still high risk. Residents and visitors should remain cautious, particularly during the extreme months, and take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses, to minimize skin damage during high UV exposure periods.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Melbourne UVI | 14 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 |
Adelaide UVI | 14 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 15 |
Sydney UVI | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 |
Perth UVI | 14 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
Broken Hill | 15 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |