Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Leongatha, Australia. With the region's temperate oceanic climate often delivering clear skies, awareness of UV levels is crucial to protect against sunburn and promote long-term skin health. During peak hours, typically between 11 AM and 1 PM, UV levels can reach a moderate 3, highlighting the need for vigilant sun safety practices. By familiarizing yourself with the UV Index and its fluctuating values throughout the day, you can enjoy the beautiful Australian outdoors while keeping your skin safe from harmful rays.
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 demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking in January and December with an extreme exposure category of 13 and 14, respectively, and a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. February and March also experience high levels of UV exposure, maintaining an index of 12 and 11, respectively. As spring arrives in April with a UV Index of 7 (high) and burn time of 25 minutes, the risk begins to decrease but remains notable. The summer months of June and July show a moderate UV level of 3, extending burn time to 30 minutes, while August sees a slight increase to 4. However, the risk surges again in September and October, where the UV Index reaches 7 (high) and 9 (very high), with burn times of 25 and 15 minutes, respectively. November also returns to extreme levels with an index of 11. Given these patterns, both visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from November to March and during early spring and fall, taking essential sun protection measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leongatha | 13 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 |
| 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 |