Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors of Port Lincoln, Australia, where the sun's rays can be both enjoyable and harmful. The UV Index provides vital information about the level of ultraviolet radiation, helping you take necessary precautions to prevent sunburn and maintain skin health. In Port Lincoln's Mediterranean-like climate (Csb), the UV exposure can fluctuate throughout the day, peaking at 3 around midday—even on seemingly mild days. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin against potential damage.
The UV Index throughout the day presents an interesting pattern of solar exposure. Starting at 07:00, it gently peaks at 1, remaining steady for the next hour. By 09:00, the index climbs to 2, reflecting the sun's increasing intensity. The sun gains momentum, reaching its highest values of 3 by 11:00, and sustaining this level until 13:00. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually declines, dropping back to 2 by 14:00 and finally tapering off to a 1 from 15:00 onwards. By the evening, from 17:00 to 19:00, the UV Index dips to 0, indicating a safe period to bask in the fading sunlight. Overall, it’s a day where sun safety is essential, especially during the 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 3 | 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 variation, with elevated levels primarily from November to March, when it frequently reaches the extreme category (UV Index 12-15) and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months are notably January, February, and December, all of which require vigilant sun protection. As the year progresses into April, the index drops to 8, indicating a very high exposure level; here, a burn time increases to 15 minutes. In May, June, July, and August, the UV Index settles into the moderate range (3-5), allowing for a safer exposure of approximately 30 minutes. However, caution is still advised, particularly in September and October, where the index rises again to high and very high levels respectively. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety measures throughout the year, especially during the extreme UV periods, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade.
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 |
| Port Lincoln | 14 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 15 |
| 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 |