Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Longreach, Australia, where the sun’s intensity can escalate rapidly, especially during the warmer months. With typical UV levels peaking at 8 around midday, being aware of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Given Longreach's BSh climate, characterized by hot and dry conditions, the risk of UV exposure remains significant. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can better protect yourself while enjoying the outdoor beauty that Longreach has to offer.
At dawn, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, a notable increase occurs, reaching 3 at 09:00 and escalating dramatically to a maximum of 8 from 12:00 to 13:00. This midday surge indicates a higher risk for sun exposure, making it essential to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing. The intensity then gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 15:00, and continuing its descent to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of the sun’s peak influence for the day. Stay mindful of these hourly fluctuations to enjoy the sun safely!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | 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, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, particularly peaking during the winter months. January, February, and November consistently present extreme UV levels at 16, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes. March and April continue this trend with high values of 15 and 11 respectively, remaining within the extreme category. As spring transitions into summer, UV exposure decreases slightly, with May recording a very high index of 8 (15-minute burn time) and June and July classified at 6 and 7 (25-minute burn time, high exposure). The UV levels rise again in August to 10 (15-minute burn time, very high), followed by a return to extremities in September and October, both noted at 12 and 14, with a brief 10-minute burn time. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December. It is crucial to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours, as UV exposure remains hazardous year-round.
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 |
| Longreach | 16 | 16 | 15 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 16 |