Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Heathcote, Australia, especially given the area's unique climate. With its temperate Cfb climate, sun exposure can vary significantly throughout the day, making awareness of UV levels essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. Even at lower UV Index readings, prolonged exposure can pose risks, so knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is vital. With peak UV levels reaching 3 between 11 AM and 1 PM, it’s important to stay informed and protect yourself while enjoying the beautiful Australian outdoors.
The UV Index data reveals a gentle rise in sun exposure as the day unfolds. Starting from a calm 0 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs to peak at 3 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, signaling the most intense sun exposure during midday. As the clock ticks past 2:00 PM, the index gently declines, reaching a soothing 1 by late afternoon, before tapering off completely to 0 by 6:00 PM. For sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, the midday hours demand precaution, while the early morning and late evening provide enjoyable, low-UVI moments.
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 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest risk months being January (14), February (12), March (11), November (12), and December (15), all categorized as extreme, where a burn can occur in as little as 10 minutes. The transition to high risk occurs in April (7) and September (7), with burn times slightly longer at 25 minutes. From May to August, the UV Index decreases to a moderate level (4-5), allowing for safer outdoor activities with burn times extending to 30 minutes. However, the UV Index spikes again in October to 9, categorized as very high, necessitating caution with a burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take proactive measures during high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to ensure safety.
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 |
Heathcote | 14 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 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 |