Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Lorne, Australia, where the picturesque coastal scenery can sometimes mask the subtle dangers of sun exposure. With Australia's climate characterized by its mild, oceanic conditions, it's easy to underestimate the potential for UV-related damage. Awareness of UV levels can help you prevent sunburn and protect your skin health, ensuring you enjoy the sunny days without the risk of harm. Generally, UV exposure peaks during midday, with maximum levels touching 3 between noon and 1 PM, highlighting the importance of vigilance during these hours. Stay informed and sun-safe while you relish the beauty of Lorne!
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a maximum of 0 at 7:00 AM, indicating minimal exposure risk. As the day progresses, the UV levels subtly rise, reaching 1 by 8:00 and 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the index reaches 2, continuing at this moderate level through 11:00 AM. The peak sunshine hours arrive at 12:00 PM, where the UV Index hits 3, marking a time to take extra precautions. As the afternoon unfolds, the levels gently dip back to 2 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, before declining to 1 between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. The UV exposure decreases significantly as evening approaches, dropping back to 0 by 6:00 PM and remaining at that safe level until sunset. Remember to stay protected during the peak hours!
| 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 | 1 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lorne | 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 |