UV Index in Katherine, Australia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Katherine, Australia is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With its tropical climate and powerful sun, Katherine presents significant UV exposure risks, particularly during the midday hours when the UV levels peak at a striking 9. This makes it essential to be aware of the UV Index to effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin from long-term damage. By grasping how to interpret these UV levels throughout the day, you can take informed steps to enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing health risks.

Hourly UV Index in Katherine

Throughout the day, the UV Index displays a dynamic pattern of intensity, peaking at 12:00 PM with a value of 9, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early in the morning, from 07:00 to 09:00, the index remains low, starting at 1 and rising to 4. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity escalates rapidly; by 10:00 AM, it reaches 6, before hitting its crescendo at 11:00 AM with an 8. The afternoon holds steady, with a slight decline to 7 by 02:00 PM, then tapering off as the sun begins its descent. By 16:00 PM, the index drops to 2, and by the evening, it falls to 0 after 18:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 02:00 PM. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine wisely!

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	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	9	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 Katherine

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Katherine, Australia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Katherine. 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 Katherine, 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 Katherine UV Index with Other Australia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Katherine 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.

Katherine'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
Katherine	16	16	15	13	11	9	10	12	15	15	16	16