Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Walcha, Australia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes overall skin health, making it essential for both residents and visitors. The region experiences a Cfb climate, which means mild summers and exposure to UV radiation can be higher during sunny days, particularly around midday when the index can reach as high as 6. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing your risk of skin damage.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic picture of sun exposure. Early hours from 07:00 to 08:00 are marked by a low index of 1, making sun protection minimal. However, as the day unfolds, the intensity rises sharply; by 09:00, it reaches 3, climbing to a peak of 6 at both 11:00 and 12:00. During this time, it's crucial to take precautions against harmful rays. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 5 at 13:00 and further to 4 by 14:00. By late afternoon, the levels fall to 2 at 15:00 and drop to 1 by 16:00, and the sun's strength wanes completely after 18:00, where it dips to 0. Plan your outdoor activities wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | 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, the UV Index displays significant seasonal changes, highlighting periods of heightened exposure risk. From January to March, UV levels remain extremely high, with indices soaring up to 16 and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. April marks a transition as the index dips to 9 (very high), with burn times extending to 15 minutes. May and August experience high levels, with indices of 7, allowing for a slightly safer 25-minute burn time. As summer progresses, June and July see a moderate UV Index of 4 and 5, respectively, allowing for 30 minutes before sunburn risk increases. The fall months, particularly September, return to levels of 9, reintroducing very high exposure risk. By October and November, the season again shifts to extreme, with indices at 12 and 14, reducing burn times to 10 minutes once more. Finally, December closes the year with similar high risks as January, reiterating the importance of vigilant sun protection. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take appropriate precautions during high-risk months (January to March and October to November), including wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun 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 |
| Walcha | 16 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 16 |
| Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |