Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Ocean Shores, Australia, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during the peak hours of exposure. With a Cfa climate, this coastal region experiences strong sun intensity, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM, when UV Index levels can reach as high as 5. Staying informed about these levels is crucial for enjoying the beautiful beaches and outdoors while keeping your skin safe!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, providing a safe environment for morning activities. The intensity gradually increases, reaching 2 by 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it climbs to 4, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. The peak arrives at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where the index hits 5, signaling a need for sun protection. The afternoon sees a decline, with readings at 4 at 1:00 PM, tapering to 3 by 2:00 PM. As the day begins to wind down, the UV Index drops steadily back to 1 by 4:00 PM, and sinks to 0 after 6:00 PM. This hourly data highlights the importance of safeguarding against UV exposure, especially during the midday 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | 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 Index levels fluctuate significantly, with January, February, and December marked as extreme risk months, each showing a UV Index of 15 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. These months indicate the highest potential for skin damage, making it crucial for both visitors and residents to prioritize sun protection. As we transition into March and April, the UV Index drops slightly to 13 and 10, respectively, still categorizing early spring as high risk, particularly with a burn time of 15 minutes in April. The risk decreases from May to July, where the maximum UV Index reaches 7 in May and 5 during June and July, allowing for 25 and 30 minutes of burn time respectively. However, August and September see another peak in UV exposure, bouncing back to very high levels with indices of 8 and 9 and a burn time of 15 minutes. October and November return to extreme categorizations with indices of 12 and 13, both requiring caution with a burn time of just 10 minutes. To ensure safety, individuals should consistently apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours, especially during the high-risk months of January, February, October, November, and December.
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 |
| Ocean Shores | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 15 |
| Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |