Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Airlie Beach, Australia. With its beautiful beaches and sunny disposition, being aware of UV levels empowers you to protect your skin from harmful rays and prevent sunburn. Effective sun protection not only helps maintain skin health but also reduces the risk of long-term damage. Given Airlie Beach's warm climate, especially during peak hours when the UV Index can reach levels as high as 9 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for safe outdoor enjoyment. Stay informed and enjoy the sun responsibly!
The UV Index data for today reveals a steady climb in ultraviolet exposure as the sun rises. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, the index escalates to 2 by 08:00, before witnessing a significant jump to 4 at 09:00. The peak occurs around 12:00, where it reaches 9—a strong signal to take protective measures against sun damage. After this midday high, the UV Index begins to drop, descending to 6 at 14:00, before dwindling further to 3 by 15:00. The evening hours bring a dramatic decline, with 1 at 16:00 and tapering off to 0 by 19:00. This data highlights the importance of sun safety during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 and 13:00.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 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, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest values recorded during the winter and early spring months. January, February, and March all display an extreme UV Index of 16 and 15, with a burn time of merely 10 minutes. Following these months, while April remains at 12 (extreme) and May dips to 9 (very high), risk continues into the summer with July at 8 (very high). Notably, August, September, and October return to extreme levels, peaking again at 14 in October and exceeding 10 minutes of burn time. Given this data, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take appropriate precautions during high-risk months—particularly from January to April and August to October—by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting direct sun exposure to protect against harmful UV rays.
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 |
| Airlie Beach | 16 | 15 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 |