Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents of Cowra, Australia, especially given the region's Cfa climate which can lead to varying levels of sun exposure throughout the year. Being aware of UV levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health, helping residents make informed decisions about when to seek shade or apply sunscreen. With Cowra's typical daily UV exposure peaking at a UV Index of 4 around midday, it’s vital to know how to protect yourself and your loved ones from the sun's harmful rays while enjoying the outdoors.
The UV Index follows a dynamic pattern throughout the morning and early afternoon. At 07:00 and 08:00, the UV levels are mild, sitting at 1, indicating low risk for sun exposure. As the day progresses, a gradual increase occurs, peaking at 12:00 with a 4, suggesting a moderate risk—a time when sun protection is definitely recommended. The index then dips back, settling at 3 by 13:00 and falling to 2 by 14:00. Post-15:00, UV levels drop significantly, returning to a minimal 1 by 16:00 and finally retreating to 0 from 17:00 onward. This hourly data underscores the importance of being sun-smart during peak hours!
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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
14:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 levels fluctuate significantly, with January, February, March, October, November, and December classified as high-risk months due to their extreme UV Index ratings, all peaking at 15 and requiring only 10 minutes of exposure before risking burns. As the year progresses, April and September feature very high UV readings of 8 (burn time 15 minutes), while May and August see moderate sector shifts to high (UV Index 6; burn time 25 minutes). The summer months of June and July present a slight respite with moderate UV levels of 4, allowing for 30 minutes of safe exposure. Given these variations, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to stay vigilant about sun protection, especially during the extreme months, by wearing adequate sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure risks.
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 |
Cowra | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 15 |
Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |