UV Index in Karratha, Australia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Karratha, Australia is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With a climate classified as BWh, Karratha experiences heightened UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours when levels can reach a peak of 9, signaling a high risk of sunburn. Being aware of these UV levels allows residents and visitors to take preventive measures, ensuring both skin health and an enjoyable outdoor experience. By monitoring the UV Index, you can effectively plan your activities and protect yourself against the harmful effects of the sun's rays. Remember, a little awareness can go a long way in keeping your skin safe!

Hourly UV Index in Karratha

The UV Index today tells a compelling story of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting low at 1 by 07:00, it gradually climbs to a moderate 3 by 09:00. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks impressively at 9 around 12:00, signaling that the sun is at its most powerful. The afternoon remains vibrant but begins to taper off as we see a drop to 4 by 15:00. Post-sunset, the UV Index plummets to 0 between 18:00 and 19:00, indicating a retreat from harmful rays. It’s a day where staying sun-smart is crucial during the midday hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	8	very high	15 min
14:00	6	high	25 min
15:00	4	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Karratha

Throughout the year, UV Index levels display significant variability, with the highest readings occurring during the first half of the year. High-risk months for UV exposure are January, February, March, April, August, September, October, November, and December, where the index consistently reaches extreme levels of 15 or 14, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. The transition into May and June sees a decrease in intensity, with values of 9 and 7, but still present very high to high risk, with longer burn times of 15 and 25 minutes respectively. To ensure safety, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to remain vigilant against UV exposure, particularly during these high-risk months. Always wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Karratha, Australia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Karratha. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Karratha, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Karratha UV Index with Other Australia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Karratha compares to other major locations across Australia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Karratha's solar exposure compared to other cities in Australia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Karratha	15	15	14	11	9	7	8	11	13	14	15	15