Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Port Augusta West, Australia, where the BSk climate brings with it significant sun exposure risks. With UV levels peaking in the midday hours, awareness of these readings can play a vital role in preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. Regularly monitoring the UV Index helps residents make informed decisions about sun safety, ensuring they protect themselves from the potentially harmful effects of prolonged exposure. With maximum readings reaching 4 around noon, residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant about sun protection strategies throughout the day.
The daily UV Index begins its ascent gently at 07:00, measuring a low 1, and maintains this soft level until 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index peaks at 4 between 11:00 and 12:00, signaling a worthwhile moment for sun protection. The afternoon sees a slight dip, with readings falling to 3 at 13:00 and then gradually decreasing to 2 by 14:00. As the sun begins to set, the index retreats further, dipping to a modest 1 from 15:00 to 16:00, and finally dropping to 0 by 17:00, indicating safe conditions for outdoor activities as the day winds down. Remember to stay sun-safe during peak hours!
| 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 15:00 | 1 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking during the winter and late fall months. From January to March, the index remains in the extreme category, with values ranging from 14 to 15 and a burn time of just 10 minutes, making these the highest risk months for UV exposure. In April, the index drops slightly to 9, shifting to very high, and maintaining that level through September. Meanwhile, June and July see a moderate index of 4, offering some relief. However, as October approaches, the UV Index rises again to 11, remaining in the extreme category until December, which peaks at 16. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially when heading outdoors.
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 |
| Port Augusta West | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 16 |
| Brisbane UVI | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 |