UV Index in Darwin, Australia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Darwin, Australia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take the necessary precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially in a region known for its intense sunlight. With a tropical climate that sees high UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the index can soar to a staggering 10, it's essential to stay informed and shield yourself effectively. Embrace the sun safely by knowing the risks and prioritizing your skin's well-being!

Hourly UV Index in Darwin

The UV Index throughout the day showcases a clear progression of intensity, peaking sharply during midday. Starting from a mild 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching a moderate 3 by 9:00 AM. However, as the sun ascends, the UV intensity escalates dramatically, hitting a striking 10 at 12:00 PM—the highest level of the day. This peak is followed by a gradual decline, with readings of 9 at 1:00 PM, 7 at 2:00 PM, and tapering down to a more manageable 4 by 3:00 PM. As the sun begins to set, the UV levels drop quickly, returning to 1 at 5:00 PM and finally fading to 0 by 6:00 PM. Stay protected during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	9	very high	15 min
14:00	7	high	25 min
15:00	4	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Darwin

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations, particularly peaking during the winter months and remaining high into early spring. The highest-risk months for UV exposure are January to April, where the UV Index ranges between 13 and 16, categorizing exposure as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As summer approaches, while the UV Index drops slightly to 9 and 10 in June and July with very high exposure categories, caution is still advised as burn times increase to 15 minutes. The trend then shifts back to extreme levels from August to December. Therefore, visitors and residents should take precautionary measures year-round, particularly from January to April, ensuring ample sun protection, including sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Darwin, Australia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Darwin. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Darwin, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Darwin UV Index with Other Australia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Darwin compares to other major locations across Australia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Darwin's solar exposure compared to other cities in Australia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Darwin	15	16	15	13	11	9	10	13	15	15	15	16