Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Yuendumu, Australia, where the sun's rays can be intense due to its BWh climate. By being aware of daily UV levels, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and maintain skin health, especially during peak hours when the index reaches a maximum of 9 between noon and 1 PM. With typical exposure risks high in this arid region, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential for enjoying the outdoors safely. Stay informed and protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects!
The UV Index today tells a compelling story of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting low at 1 by 07:00, it gradually climbs to a moderate 3 by 09:00. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks impressively at 9 around 12:00, signaling that the sun is at its most powerful. The afternoon remains vibrant but begins to taper off as we see a drop to 4 by 15:00. Post-sunset, the UV Index plummets to 0 between 18:00 and 19:00, indicating a retreat from harmful rays. It’s a day where staying sun-smart is crucial during the midday hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the region experiences significant fluctuations in UV exposure, with the highest risks occurring from November to March when the UV Index consistently hits 17, categorized as extreme, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. In September and October, UV levels remain high, with indices of 13 and 15, respectively, also falling under the extreme category. The spring months of March and April begin to ease slightly but still present danger with indices of 15 and 12. In contrast, the summer shows a gradual decline, with June reaching a UV Index of 7 and increasing to 8 and 10 in July and August, categorized as very high with slightly longer burn times. To ensure safety, both visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during the high-risk months, employing protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, especially in the extreme exposure periods of late autumn and winter.
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 |
| Yuendumu | 17 | 17 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 17 |