Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Karratha, Australia, where the sun shines brightly in a BWh climate. Being aware of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in protecting your skin health over time. With peak UV Index values reaching 9 around noon, Karratha residents must be particularly vigilant during these hours to mitigate risks associated with overexposure to the sun. Equip yourself with knowledge and stay safe under the Australian sun!
The UV Index today follows an interesting trajectory, peaking dramatically as the day progresses. Starting softly in the early hours, with a maximum of 1 at both 07:00 and 08:00, it climbs steadily to reach a moderate 3 by 09:00. The warmth intensifies, and by 11:00, we see a significant spike to 8, culminating in an impressive maximum of 9 at 12:00. This peak indicates a high level of UV exposure, urging sun safety practices. The intensity gradually tapers off, with readings of 8 at 13:00 and diminishing to 6 and 4 through the afternoon. By 16:00, the index drops to 2, before fading into evening with readings at 1 by 17:00 and falling to 0 for the final hours, signaling a safe return indoors as sunlight wanes. Stay protected during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 |
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.
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 |
| Karratha | 15 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 |