UV Index in Mount Isa, Australia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Mount Isa, Australia, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health under the intense sun. As this vibrant city experiences a hot semi-arid climate (BSh), UV levels can soar, especially during the midday hours, reaching a maximum of 7 around noon. Understanding these UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for safeguarding skin health in the long term. With the peak UV risk occurring consistently between 10 AM and 2 PM, being aware of the UV Index can help you enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing potential harm from harmful UV radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Mount Isa

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic and vibrant midday sun. Starting at 07:00, the UV levels are negligible at 0, slowly rising to 1 by 08:00. As the clock ticks towards 10:00, the intensity escalates to 4, reaching its peak at 12:00 with a robust 7. This high level of UV radiation continues until 14:00, when it slightly declines to 6. As the afternoon progresses, it tapers off, dropping to 4 at 15:00, and further decreasing to 2 by 16:00. The evening ushers in a calming effect, with levels settling back to 1 at 17:00 and 18:00, before retreating to 0 by 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the daylight hours, especially when the index peaks at midday.

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	7	high	25 min
13:00	7	high	25 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	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Mount Isa

The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels prevalent from January through April, where the index remains above 12 and burn times are as short as 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from January to April and then again in August to November, with February and November peaking at 16. Visitors and residents should exercise heightened caution during these times, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, particularly during the peak hours of sun exposure. As we transition to the summer months, the UV Index does decrease slightly, but it remains essential to be vigilant, as any outdoor activities can still lead to harmful effects from UV radiation.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mount Isa, Australia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mount Isa 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.

Mount Isa'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
Mount Isa	17	16	15	12	9	7	8	11	13	14	16	16