Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Katherine East, Australia, where the intense sunlight poses significant risks throughout the year. With maximum UV levels peaking at 10 during midday hours, being informed about these fluctuations is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. Given Katherine East's hot, dry climate, the likelihood of overexposure increases, making it important to take protective measures when the UV Index rises. Stay vigilant about your UV exposure to enjoy the outdoors safely!
The UV Index throughout the day showcased a dynamic pattern, peaking sharply during the midday hours. Beginning at a low of 1 at 07:00, it steadily climbed, reaching 2 by 08:00. A significant surge occurred between 09:00 and 12:00, where it soared to an impressive 10 at its highest, indicating very high exposure risk. The intensity began to wane post-lunch, dropping to 8 at 14:00, and declining further to 5 and then 2 by late afternoon. As evening approached, the index fell to 1 at 17:00 and eventually settled at 0 after 18:00, signaling a retreat from the sun's harmful rays. If you’re planning outdoor activities, the peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 13:00, call for protective measures!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes indicate a consistent high risk for sun exposure, particularly from January to November, where the UV Index remains in the extreme category, often reaching as high as 16 and requiring only 10 minutes for potential sunburn. The months of February and November also maintain an extreme level, making them high-risk months for sun exposure. Even during the summer months, while the UV Index drops slightly to around 9 and 10 in June and July, caution is still advised. Visitors and residents should ensure they protect their skin during these high UV periods, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.
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 |
| Katherine East | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 16 |