Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Longreach, Australia, to safeguard their skin health under the bright sun. With its BSh climate, characterized by hot and dry conditions, Longreach experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during midday when levels can reach as high as 6. Being aware of UV levels not only helps prevent painful sunburn but also plays a vital role in reducing long-term skin damage. As you navigate through this sun-soaked region, staying informed about the UV Index will empower you to make smart choices for your safety and well-being.
The UV Index forecast showcases a dynamic day ahead, starting off gently in the early morning with values of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises higher, we see a gradual increase, peaking at 6 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating a need for sun protection during these hours. Particularly, the 11:00 and 12:00 slots mark significant levels, reaching 5 and 6 respectively, suggesting that outdoor activities should be planned with caution. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index dips to 5 at 14:00 and continues to fall, descending to 3 by 15:00. By evening, the UV Index returns to a safer level of 1 by 16:00, and drops to 0 from 18:00 onwards, indicating a soothing end to the day.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 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 |