Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Cape Paterson, Australia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. With a climate characterized by cool, temperate conditions, residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant about UV levels to prevent sunburn and protect long-term skin health. During the sun’s peak hours, particularly from 12 PM to 2 PM, the UV Index can reach a moderate level of 3, indicating a heightened risk for unprotected skin. Staying informed about these levels not only helps in enjoying the beautiful outdoor activities that Cape Paterson offers but also plays a vital role in promoting overall skin health. Being aware of UV exposure risks can lead to better sun safety practices, ensuring you enjoy the sun without compromising your well-being.
The UV Index throughout the day tells an intriguing story of sun exposure. Beginning at 7:00 AM, the index stands at a minimal 0, indicating a lower risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses to 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, it slightly increases to 1, suggesting that while the sun is on the rise, caution is still not paramount. By 10:00 AM, the index climbs to 2, hinting at moderate sun intensity, which remains consistent until 11:00 AM. The peak index of 3 is reached at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, marking the sun's strength at its highest, where protective measures are advised. Following this zenith, a gradual decline begins; the index dips back to 2 at 2:00 PM and slides further down to 1 by mid-afternoon, finally wrapping up the day as it returns to 0 by 6:00 PM. This hourly data highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during midday hours when UV exposure is most intense.
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The seasonal changes in UV Index reveal two peak periods of extreme exposure, specifically in January and December, with an index of 13 and a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. The other high-risk months include February (UV Index 12) and November (UV Index 11), where the threat remains substantial. March and October also demand caution, categorized as very high with UV Index values of 10 and 9 respectively and shorter burn times of 15 minutes. From April to August, UV levels moderate to high and moderate, allowing slightly longer burn times; however, still necessitating sun protection. As a rule of thumb, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to remain vigilant during high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to mitigate the risks associated with harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Paterson | 13 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 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 |