Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Nowra, Australia, as it helps you protect your skin and prevent sunburn. With the region's Cfb climate, which often features mild temperatures and ample sunshine, awareness of UV levels becomes essential for maintaining skin health throughout the year. Depending on the time of day, UV levels can vary significantly, with peak exposure typically occurring around midday. For instance, during the height of summer, the UV Index can reach levels of 4 at noon, highlighting the importance of taking precautions to minimize risks linked to prolonged sun exposure. Stay informed and enjoy your time outdoors safely!
The UV Index throughout the day presents an interesting landscape of sun exposure. Starting off at a mild 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, the index gradually rises to reach a peak of 4 at 12:00—the prime time for potential skin damage. As the sun begins to descend, the index dips back down to 2 by 14:00 and falls to a gentle 1 from 15:00 to 17:00. After a warm day filled with variable UV intensity, outdoor activities should taper off as the index drops to 0 by 18:00 and stays there until the day's end. It's a reminder of the importance of sun safety during those midday hours when the UV rays are at their most potent!
| 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk months being January through March and November through December, all categorized as extreme exposure. Specifically, from January to March, the UV Index reaches as high as 15, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. The month of April, while slightly lower at 8, remains in the very high range, requiring vigilance with a burn time of 15 minutes. Mid-year months, like May through August, see a drop in UV Index levels to a more manageable 3 to 5, classified as moderate, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. However, as autumn approaches in September and October, UV levels rise again to very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. It is crucial for both residents and visitors to stay informed and take appropriate precautions, especially during the extreme months, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and minimizing sun exposure during peak 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 |
| Nowra | 15 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 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 |