Last updated: July 2, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Dundowran Beach, Australia, where the climate often toggles between warm and humid, creating a perfect setting for sun-filled days. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. During peak hours, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, the UV Index can reach levels of 6, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As you enjoy the stunning beaches and vibrant outdoor activities, staying informed about UV exposure will ensure you can bask in the sun safely while protecting your skin.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a dynamic picture of sun exposure. Early hours from 07:00 to 08:00 are marked by a low index of 1, making sun protection minimal. However, as the day unfolds, the intensity rises sharply; by 09:00, it reaches 3, climbing to a peak of 6 at both 11:00 and 12:00. During this time, it's crucial to take precautions against harmful rays. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 5 at 13:00 and further to 4 by 14:00. By late afternoon, the levels fall to 2 at 15:00 and drop to 1 by 16:00, and the sun's strength wanes completely after 18:00, where it dips to 0. Plan your outdoor activities wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 exhibit significant seasonal variations, with extreme exposure occurring from January to April and again in October to November. The highest risk months are January, February, and November, when the UV Index consistently hits 15, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. In the spring (March to May), the index gradually decreases, transitioning to very high levels during May and August to September, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. The summer months of June and July see a high UV Index of 6, allowing for a longer exposure time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to use sunscreen and protective clothing during the high risk months, especially when the UV Index is 8 or higher, and to take particular care in extreme categories to prevent skin damage.
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 |
| Dundowran Beach | 15 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 |