Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Rochester, Australia, especially given the town’s BSk climate, which often leads to varying UV exposure throughout the day. With peak UV levels reaching a moderate 3 around midday, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. The UV Index not only helps you gauge your sun exposure but also informs you when to take essential precautions, such as wearing sunscreen or seeking shade. In a place where the sun shines brightly, staying informed is your first line of defense against harmful effects while enjoying the great outdoors.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a gradual increase in sun intensity, peaking mid-afternoon. Starting at 0 at 07:00, the index rises to 1 by 08:00 and remains moderate at 1 for the following hour. As the sun ascends, the intensity reaches 2 by 10:00, climbing further to 3 at 11:00, sustaining this level until 14:00. After this peak, a gentle decline begins, with the index dropping to 2 at 15:00, and gradually easing back to 1 by 17:00, before retreating to 0 by 18:00. For anyone spending time outdoors, the late morning to early afternoon presents the highest UV exposure; thus, caution and sun protection are highly advisable during these 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 2 | 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 demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations, with January and December peaking at an extreme 15 and 14, respectively, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. February and November also remain high, with UV Index values of 12. The months of March and October show considerable risk as well, marked by UV Index levels of 11 and 10, respectively. As we transition into warmer months, the UV Index decreases to 7 in April and September while staying moderate at 5 during May and August and further dropping to 3 in June and July. Therefore, for visitors and residents, it is crucial to remain vigilant during high-risk months like January, February, March, October, November, and December by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade when necessary to mitigate the dangers of excessive UV exposure.
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 |
| Rochester | 14 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 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 |