UV Index in Darwin, Australia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Darwin, Australia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn in a region known for its tropical climate and intense sunlight. Understanding UV levels not only helps you plan outdoor activities more safely but also plays a vital role in minimizing long-term skin damage. With peak UV Index values often reaching 11 between noon and 1 PM, residents and visitors alike must be vigilant about sun exposure and protection to enjoy the beautiful Darwin outdoors without compromising their health.

Hourly UV Index in Darwin

As the day unfolds, the UV Index reaches its peak between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a striking 11. The morning starts gently, with the index at a modest 1 by 7:00 AM, slowly climbing to 4 by 9:00 AM. The sun then intensifies, pushing the index to a strong 10 at 11:00 AM, signaling it's time to seek shade and protect your skin. By 2:00 PM, it begins to wane, dropping to 8, and further decreases to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the index continues to fall, reaching 2 at 4:00 PM, and finally settling at 1 by 5:00 PM and 0 as the sun sets at 6:00 PM. Stay aware and shield yourself during those crucial midday 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	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	10	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	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