Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Elsternwick, Australia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful radiation. The UV Index indicates the strength of UV rays at various times of the day, helping residents make informed decisions about sun protection. High UV levels can lead to painful sunburns and increase the risk of long-term skin health issues. With Elsternwick’s coastal climate, which enjoys plenty of sunshine, it’s especially important to be aware of daily UV fluctuations. During peak hours, like midday, even moderate UV Index levels can pose significant risks, making sun safety a priority for all who live and visit this vibrant suburb.
The UV Index throughout the day paints a clear picture of sun exposure. Starting from 07:00, the index remains at 0, indicating minimal UV radiation. As the sun rises higher, it reaches a peak of 3 at 12:00, marking the time when protection is essential. Between 10:00 and 14:00, the index fluctuates between 2 and 3, suggesting moderate to high UV levels, perfect for seeking shade or wearing sunscreen. Post 15:00, the UV Index drops gradually, returning to 0 by 18:00. This data highlights the importance of being sun-smart during midday hours when UV radiation is at its strongest. Stay protected!
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with particularly high-risk months occurring in winter and late fall. From November to February, the UV Index peaks at a striking 13, indicating an extreme exposure category, where unprotected skin can burn in just 10 minutes. Following this period, April and September see a rise to a 7 rating, categorized as high, with a burn time of 25 minutes. By contrast, the summer months—May to August—exhibit a moderate UV Index, ranging from 3 to 4, allowing for longer safe sun exposure of 30 minutes. However, attention should be paid in October, when the Index rises again to 9. To ensure safety, visitors and residents are advised to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade, especially during the high-risk months when UV radiation can be particularly harmful.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elsternwick | 13 | 12 | 11 | 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 |