Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Lake Cathie, Australia, as it provides vital information on the potential risks of sun exposure. With the area's Cfa climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, knowing UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. As UV exposure can vary throughout the day, particularly peaking between 10 AM and 1 PM with indexes reaching up to 4, staying informed allows you to enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risk of harmful effects on your skin.
The daily UV Index begins its ascent gently at 07:00, measuring a low 1, and maintains this soft level until 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index peaks at 4 between 11:00 and 12:00, signaling a worthwhile moment for sun protection. The afternoon sees a slight dip, with readings falling to 3 at 13:00 and then gradually decreasing to 2 by 14:00. As the sun begins to set, the index retreats further, dipping to a modest 1 from 15:00 to 16:00, and finally dropping to 0 by 17:00, indicating safe conditions for outdoor activities as the day winds down. Remember to stay sun-safe 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 4 | 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 |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest levels observed from January to March and a notable resurgence in October to November. Specifically, January and February lead with an extreme UV Index of 15, requiring minimal sun exposure within just 10 minutes to avoid burning. The high-risk months for UV exposure are thus identified as October (UV Index 11) and November (UV Index 13), as well as the early months of the year. In contrast, the UV levels decrease during the summer months to moderate levels, with the UV Index dropping to 4 in June and July. To protect your skin, it is essential for both visitors and residents to take precautions, especially in these high-index months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours.
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 |
Lake Cathie | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 |
Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |