Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in North West Cape, Australia, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 8 during the midday hours, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. North West Cape's arid climate and high UV exposure make it vital to stay informed about UV levels throughout the day, especially to protect yourself during the intense hours of 11 AM to 2 PM. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM and remaining low at 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it edges up to 2, but the real intensity kicks in at 10:00 AM with a surge to 4. The peak occurs around 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, where it reaches a scorching 8, representing a significant rise in UV exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins its descent, dropping to 6 by 2:00 PM and easing to 4 by 3:00 PM. Before the sun sets, the UV levels taper off quickly, with readings of 2 at 4:00 PM and declining to 0 by 6:00 PM. This hourly data serves as a reminder to stay protected during peak UV hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
10:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 8 | 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, the UV Index displays distinct seasonal variations, with the highest risks occurring during the months of January, February, March, April, September, October, November, and December, where the index reaches extreme levels of 15 to 14 and a burn time as low as 10 minutes. Conversely, during May, June, July, and August, while the index remains high to very high (up to 10), the burn time increases, allowing for slightly longer skin exposure—up to 25 minutes in June. To safeguard against harmful UV exposure, it is crucial for visitors and residents alike to take protective measures, particularly in high-risk months: wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
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 |
North West Cape | 15 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 |