Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Desert Springs, Australia, where the climate is classified as BWh, characterized by hot, arid conditions. With UV levels varying throughout the day, particularly peaking at a high of 7 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, being aware of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. Ignoring UV exposure in this sunny locale can increase the risk of skin damage over time. Whether you're hiking, lounging by the pool, or exploring the outdoors, staying informed about UV risks will help you enjoy the sun safely and responsibly.
As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, offering a gentle start to the day. However, as the hours progress, the intensity increases, reaching 3 by 09:00 and peaking at 7 between 11:00 and 13:00. This midday surge signifies the sun's powerful rays, urging everyone to take precautions for skin protection. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 5 at 14:00, and further decreasing to 3 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, with the index falling to 1 by 16:00 and 0 from 18:00 onward. Embrace the early hours for outdoor activities, but stay vigilant during lunchtime when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
| Desert Springs | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 17 |