Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of North Gosford, Australia, where the subtropical Cfa climate can bring intense sun exposure, especially during peak hours. By monitoring UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin health, making it essential knowledge for outdoor activities. With the UV Index varying throughout the day—peaking at 4 between 11 AM and 1 PM—it's important to be aware of these fluctuations to safeguard against the potential risks of sun exposure, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time under the Australian sun.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals an interesting pattern of sun exposure. Early risers can enjoy the morning hours with a UV Index of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, perfect for leisurely outdoor activities. As the clock strikes 09:00, the UV Index gently rises to 2, indicating a slight increase in sun intensity. However, the real peak occurs around 11:00 and 12:00 when the UV Index hits a sizzling 4—a reminder to seek shade and apply sunscreen! As the afternoon progresses, conditions start to mellow, with values dropping back down to 3 at 13:00 and 14:00. By later afternoon and into the evening, the UV Index falls to 1 and ultimately 0 by 19:00, signaling a wrap-up to sun exposure for the day. Remember, while enjoying the sun, it's crucial to stay protected during those 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 | 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 |
The UV Index reveals significant seasonal variations in sun exposure, with January, February, March, November, and December marked as high-risk months due to their extreme UV levels, where burn time is as little as 10 minutes. April and September transition into very high exposure categories, reducing burn time to 15 minutes. As we move into May through July, the UV Index drops to moderate levels, allowing for a safer exposure of 30 minutes; however, it is essential to remain cautious. By August, the risk increases again to a high category with a burn time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents should take adequate precautions during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| North Gosford | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 |
| 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 |
| Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |