Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Forbes, Australia, where the Cfa climate brings warm summers and potential sun exposure risks. By staying informed about UV levels, you can effectively protect yourself against sunburn and support your long-term skin health. During peak hours, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, UV levels often reach as high as 5, making awareness and prevention essential for enjoying the sunny days while safeguarding your skin. With this guide, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy the outdoors safely in Forbes!
The UV Index for today reveals a dynamic day filled with fluctuating sun exposure. Early morning hours start off mild, with levels at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, ideal for gentle outdoor activities. As the sun climbs, the index rises to 2 by 09:00 and peaks at 5 between 11:00 and 13:00, signaling a strong need for sunscreen and protective gear during midday. Fortunately, the intensity begins to dip after 14:00, descending back to 3 and eventually settling at 1 by late afternoon. As twilight approaches, the UV Index falls to 0, providing a safe window for evening strolls. Remember to stay protected when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 4 | 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 levels exhibit notable seasonal fluctuations, with the highest risk months being January, February, March, October, November, and December, where the UV Index consistently falls in the extreme category (15 to 14), indicating a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. April marks a shift to very high exposure (UV Index 8), allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. As summer approaches, the index drops to moderate levels (5 to 4) in May, June, and July, with burn times ranging from 30 minutes to 25 minutes in August when it reaches a high rating of 6. As the year progresses into fall with September's very high UV levels, residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions during high-risk months. It is recommended to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during peak sun hours, to minimize the risk of UV exposure.
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 |
| Forbes | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 15 |
| Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |