Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Charles Sturt University in Australia, where the climate can pose unique sun exposure risks. High UV levels, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the index peaks at 5, highlight the need for increased vigilance against sunburn and long-term skin health issues. By knowing the UV Index, individuals can take appropriate measures to protect their skin, ensuring a safer and healthier outdoor experience while enjoying the beautiful Australian weather. Stay informed and shield your skin—knowledge is your best defense!
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a notable oscillation in sun exposure. Early morning hours from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM see a mild UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk. As the sun ascends, the intensity rises sharply, peaking at 5 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, marking the day’s highest risk for skin damage. Following this peak, the index tapers off in the afternoon, returning to a manageable 2 by 3:00 PM, before descending to a safe 0 by 6:00 PM. It’s clear that the primary concern for sun safety lies during mid-day; ensure to protect your skin when the UV Index hits its zenith!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, with the highest risks occurring from November to March, where the index reaches extreme levels of 14 to 15 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, the spring and summer months show a gradual decrease in UV exposure, with May through July categorized as moderate (UV Index 3 to 5) and allowing for burn times of 30 minutes. April and September present a shift back to high risk, falling into the very high category with a UV Index of 8 and a burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should take extra precautions during the high-risk months, particularly by wearing appropriate sun protection and limiting sun exposure to reduce the risk of skin damage, especially within the extreme months.
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 |
| Charles Sturt University | 14 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 15 |
| Perth UVI | 14 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
| Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |