UV Index in McKinlay, Australia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in McKinlay, Australia, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health under the relentless sun. With the local climate characterized as BSh, residents and visitors often experience high levels of UV exposure, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when indices peak at 8. Being aware of these UV levels is essential to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Queensland outdoors while ensuring that you're taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in McKinlay

The UV Index throughout the day showcases an interesting pattern of solar intensity. Early morning starts off with a UVI of 0 at 07:00, gradually creeping up to 1 at 08:00. By 09:00, it gains momentum, reaching 2, and then really picks up during the late morning hours, soaring to 6 at 11:00 and hitting a peak of 8 at both 12:00 and 13:00. After this high point, the index begins to decline, with notable drops to 7 at 14:00 and 4 by 15:00. As the sun begins to set, the intensity dips further, falling to 2 at 16:00, then 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, finally settling back to a calm 0 at 19:00. This fluctuation underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest!

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	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	8	very high	15 min
13:00	8	very high	15 min
14:00	7	high	25 min
15:00	4	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in McKinlay

The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with extreme levels persisting from January to April and returning in September to November. The highest UV Index readings occur in the winter months, peaking at 17 in January and dropping to 12 by April, before transitioning to very high (UV Index 9 to 10) during the summer months of May through August. High-risk months include from January to April and again in September to November, where the recommended burn time remains critically low at just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take essential precautions during these periods, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses to protect against harmful UV exposure, even on cloudy days.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for McKinlay, Australia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in McKinlay 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.

McKinlay'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
McKinlay	17	16	15	12	9	7	8	10	13	15	16	16