Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in South Mission Beach, Australia, a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches and sunny climate. With UV levels peaking at 9 during midday hours, awareness of these fluctuations is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. The Cfa climate provides ample sunlight throughout the year, making it essential to know when and how to safeguard your skin from harmful rays. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beauty of South Mission Beach while minimizing the risks associated with sun exposure.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a sharp rise and fall, highlighting the sun's intensity. At 07:00, it starts gentle at 1, but by 09:00, it climbs to 4, signaling a need for some sun protection. The real peak occurs between 11:00 and 13:00, reaching a noteworthy 9—a time when sun safety is crucial. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to drop to 7 by 14:00, before tapering off to 4 at 15:00. By 16:00, it further declines to 2, and the sun's impact wanes as evening approaches, hitting 1 at 17:00. By 18:00 and 19:00, it settles at 0, marking the end of the solar intensity for the day. Stay informed and protect your skin when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index data reveals significant seasonal variations in sun exposure risk throughout the year. January through April displays consistently extreme UV levels, with an alarming index reaching as high as 16 and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. As temperatures rise, May and June transition to a very high UV index, where brief sun exposure can lead to burns in 15 minutes. The risk spikes again in August with another extreme level of 11, and remains significant through October and November. December returns to an extreme rating of 16. Therefore, visitors and residents should exercise caution and prioritize sun safety precautions, particularly from January through April and again in August through November, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours.
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 |
| South Mission Beach | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |