Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Kalbarri, Australia, where the sun-soaked climate amplifies UV exposure risks. Awareness of UV levels plays a crucial role in preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health, particularly during the peak hours of midday when the UV Index reaches its highest. With Kalbarri's climate categorized as BSh, it features warm, dry conditions that can easily lead to increased UV intensity. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting yourself against harmful UV radiation. Stay informed, stay safe, and make the most of your time in this stunning coastal town!
At dawn, the UV Index begins at a gentle 0 by 07:00, indicating minimal exposure risk. As the sun rises higher, the index steadily climbs, reaching 1 at 08:00 and peaking at 5 between 12:00 and 13:00, when the sun’s rays are at their most intense. During these peak hours, it’s wise to don your sunscreen and protective gear. Following this zenith, the index gracefully descends, dropping to 4 at 14:00 and tapering off to 2 by 15:00. As the afternoon fades to evening, the UV levels reduce significantly, returning to a safe 0 by 18:00. This hourly UV pattern underscores the importance of sun safety during peak daylight hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | 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, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risks occurring during the winter and late fall months. From January to March and again in October to November, the UV Index reaches extreme levels (15-14), where skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes of unprotected exposure. The spring months provide a slight reprieve with lower UV levels, but April still warrants caution as it remains in the very high (10) category, with a burn time of 15 minutes. Summer months see a decline in UV intensity, particularly in June, where it drops to a moderate (5) level, but July and August return to high (6-8) and very high (10) levels respectively. Moving into the fall, September balances out with very high (10) UV exposure. It is advisable for both visitors and residents to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen, especially during the extreme months to avoid harmful skin damage.
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 |
| 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 |
| Kalbarri | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 |