Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Alice Springs, Australia, as this mesmerizing desert town is known for its intense sunlight. With summer temperatures soaring and clear skies prevailing, being aware of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and safeguard long-term skin health. During peak hours, typically between 11 AM and 1 PM, UV levels can reach as high as 6, indicating increased risk for skin damage. Therefore, being informed about UV exposure is essential for enjoying the beautiful outdoor landscapes of Alice Springs while staying protected from harmful rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM at a robust 6. Early hours, without much intensity, see UV levels of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, activity picks up, reaching 3, and continues to climb until it hits 4 by 10:00 AM. The midday sun really asserts its presence, maintaining a strong 6 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, which is a critical time for sun safety awareness. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, falling to 2 by 3:00 PM, and later diminishing to a mere 0 by 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. It's a day of notable UV fluctuation, highlighting the importance of protection during the peak hours!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 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, significant seasonal changes in UV Index levels are observed, with the highest readings occurring from January to April, where the index remains in the extreme category (17-15) and burn time is just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are primarily February, March, April, September, October, November, and December, all categorized as extreme to very high, indicating a need for vigilant sun protection. As May through August sees a slight reduction in UV levels, the exposure remains notably high, with recommended burn times increasing to 15-25 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during high UV periods to mitigate 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 |
| 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 |
| Alice Springs | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 17 |