Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Launceston, Australia. With our picturesque climate, particularly during the sunny months, being aware of UV levels can significantly impact your skin health and help prevent sunburn. The UV Index here typically peaks at 2 around midday, emphasizing the importance of sun protection as the risk of skin damage rises even on seemingly mild days. As you navigate Launceston’s Cfb climate, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can ensure your outdoor adventures are safe and enjoyable, allowing you to fully embrace the beauty of our environment.
The UV Index data presents an interesting snapshot of sunlight intensity throughout the day. Starting at 7:00 AM, the index registers a maximum of 0, indicating a safe environment for outdoor activities. As the morning progresses, it gradually rises, peaking at 2 between 11:00 AM and 13:00 PM, signaling a moderate level of UV exposure. This peak highlights a crucial time for sun protection, especially if you’re outdoors. In the early afternoon, the index dips back to 1 by 14:00, then continues to decline, reaching 0 again by 17:00, signaling a safe evening. This information serves as a helpful reminder to stay protected during peak sunlight hours while enjoying the outdoors!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 12:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 13:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 14:00 | 1 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with January and December experiencing the highest readings at 13, categorized as extreme, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. February and November also pose high risk with an index of 11, remaining in the extreme category. As we transition into March, a gradual decrease to 10 places it in the very high category with a burn time of 15 minutes. The risk wanes through the warmer months, reaching a low of 2 in June and July, where the burn time extends to 45 minutes. By August, UV levels rise again to 4, categorizing it as moderate, before returning to a high level of 6 in April and September. Visitors and residents should prepare for increased sun exposure in the high-risk months of January, February, October, and November, advising protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and limited time in direct sunlight to safeguard against harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Launceston | 13 | 11 | 10 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 |
| 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 |