Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for life in Alice Springs, Australia, where the sun shines brightly in a BWh climate. With UV levels peaking higher than average—reaching a maximum of 9 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM—awareness of these readings can significantly contribute to sunburn prevention and overall skin health. The risk of prolonged exposure can lead to serious skin issues, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to monitor daily UV levels. Whether enjoying the outdoors at midday or planning your activities around the sun, knowing the UV Index helps you stay safe and protected in this sunny desert environment.
The UV Index data for today reveals a steady climb in ultraviolet exposure as the sun rises. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index escalates to 2 by 08:00, before witnessing a significant jump to 4 at 09:00. The peak occurs around 12:00, where it reaches 9—a strong signal to take protective measures against sun damage. After this midday high, the UV Index begins to drop, descending to 6 at 14:00, before dwindling further to 3 by 15:00. The evening hours bring a dramatic decline, with 1 at 16:00 and tapering off to 0 by 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 13:00.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 |