Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Plainland, Australia, where the subtropical Cfa climate can lead to varying levels of sun exposure throughout the day. Knowing the UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health, particularly during peak hours when the index reaches 5 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. With the region's typical sunny weather, awareness of UV risks can empower individuals to take proactive measures, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience under the Australian sun.
The UV Index for the day showcases a clear peak during the midday hours, rising from a low of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. By 09:00, it reaches 2, but the real intensity hits at 10:00, soaring to 4. The maximum exposure occurs around 11:00 and 12:00, both maintaining a 5 on the scale, urging sun-seekers to take precautions. As the afternoon progresses, the index gently declines to 4 at 13:00, then dips further to 3 by 14:00. By the time the clock strikes 15:00, it drops to 2, and the evening sets in with a comfortable 1 at 16:00. After 17:00, the UV Index drops to 0, signaling a safe end to sun-related activities.
| 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking in the winter months and declining during the summer. January to March sees extreme exposure levels with a UV Index ranging from 14 to 16, necessitating a short burn time of just 10 minutes. April marks a transition to very high levels (UV Index 10) with a slightly increased burn time of 15 minutes. As we move into May and June, the UV Index decreases to high and moderate levels (7 and 5, respectively), resulting in longer burn times of 25 to 30 minutes. However, during August and September, the UV Index rises again to 8 and 10, falling back into the very high category. The year closes out with extreme UV levels returning in October through December, where burn times range from 10 to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months, particularly from January through March and again in October and November, by wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen to minimize the risk of sunburn.
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 |
| Plainland | 16 | 15 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 |