UV Index in Mackay, Australia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for everyone living in or visiting Mackay, Australia, where the subtropical climate brings plenty of sunshine. With the UV Index reaching levels as high as 9 during midday, being informed about UV exposure is crucial for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. As Mackay experiences a Cwa climate, residents and visitors alike need to stay vigilant about sun safety, especially during the warmer months, when risks for skin damage are at their peak. Prioritizing UV Index awareness can help you enjoy the sun responsibly while protecting your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Mackay

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mackay

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels recorded from January to April, where it remains in the extreme category between 16 to 12, resulting in a very short burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend continues with September to December, again reaching extreme levels. The high-risk months for UV exposure are therefore January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December. In the spring and summer, the index drops slightly, entering the very high category in May and July, where the burn time increases to 15 minutes, and the high category in June with a burn time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions year-round, particularly in high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mackay, Australia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mackay 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.

Mackay'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 UVI	15	15	13	10	7	5	5	8	9	12	14	15
Mackay	16	15	14	12	9	7	8	10	12	14	15	16