Last updated: July 2, 2025
In the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Australia, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With the region’s Cfa climate, which boasts plenty of sunshine year-round, understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of skin damage. The UV Index typically reaches moderate to high levels, peaking at 6 around midday, highlighting the importance of sun protection measures during those peak hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors can enjoy the stunning outdoors while keeping their skin healthy and protected.
Experience the sun's intensity as the day unfolds with the UV Index revealing a dynamic range of exposure. Beginning at dawn, the index starts at a modest 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, making it a safe time for morning strolls. As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index rises sharply, peaking at 6 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling high risk for skin damage at midday. Afterward, it gradually tapers off, dipping to 2 by 15:00, and further falling back to 1 by the late afternoon. As evening approaches, the UV levels finally drop to 0 after 18:00, providing a safe end to the day. Remember, protection is key during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk occurring from January to March and in November and December, all classed as extreme with a UV index of 15 and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. The month of April presents a notable decrease to very high at a UV index of 10, while May and June transition into high and moderate categories, with increased burn times of 25 and 30 minutes, respectively. As summer progresses into July, the UV index remains moderate before peaking again for late summer and autumn, reaching very high levels in August and September. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant, especially during the high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. It’s essential to stay informed and protect your skin year-round, especially during extreme exposure times.
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 |
| Sunshine Coast | 15 | 15 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 |