UV Index in Brisbane, Australia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In sunny Brisbane, Australia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for reducing the long-term risks of skin damage and skin cancer. Brisbane’s subtropical climate means that UV radiation can be intense, particularly during the midday hours when the index peaks between 5 and 4. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take proactive steps to enjoy the great outdoors safely and keep your skin healthy year-round.

Hourly UV Index in Brisbane

The UV Index for the day showcases a clear peak during the midday hours, rising from a low of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it reaches 2, but the real intensity hits at 10:00, soaring to 4. The maximum exposure occurs around 11:00 and 12:00, both maintaining a 5 on the scale, urging sun-seekers to take precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently declines to 4 at 13:00, then dips further to 3 by 14:00. By the time the clock strikes 15:00, it drops to 2, and the evening sets in with a comfortable 1 at 16:00. After 17:00, the UV Index drops to 0, signaling a safe end to sun-related activities.

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	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	5	moderate	30 min
12:00	5	moderate	30 min
13:00	4	moderate	30 min
14:00	3	moderate	30 min
15:00	2	low	45 min
16:00	1	low	45 min
17:00	0	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Brisbane

Seasonal UV changes reveal a distinct pattern, with the highest UV Index observed from January to March, consistently reaching 15 and classified as extreme. These months, along with October and November, maintain an extreme rating, with a brief burn time of just 10 minutes, marking them as high-risk periods for skin damage. In contrast, the UV Index declines during June and July to a moderate level of 5, allowing for a more extended exposure time of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during the high-risk months, particularly from January to March and in October and November, by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize harmful UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Brisbane, Australia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Brisbane 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.

Brisbane'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	15	15	13	10	7	5	5	8	9	12	14	15