UV Index in Queenstown, Australia

Last updated: October 4, 2025

In the picturesque town of Queenstown, Australia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a climate classified as Cfb, which indicates mild temperatures, residents and visitors alike often underestimate the risks associated with sun exposure. Knowing UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during peak hours when the index reaches 2. Be informed and stay protected—awareness of the UV Index can make a significant difference in enjoying the sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Queenstown

During the early hours, the UV Index remains low, starting at a comfortable 0 at 07:00. As the sun rises, it gradually climbs to 2 by late morning, peaking at 2 from 10:00 through 14:00. This indicates a moderate level of UV radiation, making it a good time to enjoy outdoor activities while still taking precautions. As afternoon transitions into evening, the index dips back down to 1 between 15:00 and 17:00, finally returning to 0 after 18:00. Overall, it's a day where staying mindful of sun exposure is essential during peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	high	25 min
12:00	8	very high	15 min
13:00	8	very high	15 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Queenstown

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Queenstown, Australia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Queenstown. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Queenstown, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Queenstown UV Index with Other Australia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Queenstown compares to other major locations across Australia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Queenstown's solar exposure compared to other cities in Australia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Queenstown	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