UV Index in Sydney, Canada

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Sydney, Canada, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for ensuring your skin’s health and preventing sunburn. With the region's Dfb climate, exposure to harmful UV rays can increase significantly, especially during peak hours. Understanding UV levels helps you safeguard yourself, as the index can reach highs of 10 around midday, indicating a very high risk for harm. Emphasizing protection strategies is key for both residents and visitors looking to enjoy the sun safely in this beautiful locale.

Hourly UV Index in Sydney

From 07:00 to 08:00, the UV Index starts off mild with a maximum of 1 to 2, making it a safe time for early outdoor activities. As the sun climbs higher, the UV levels rise sharply, reaching 4 by 09:00 and hitting 6 by 10:00. The intensity peaks at 13:00 with a significant 10, indicating high exposure risk, perfect for applying sunscreen and seeking shade. As we move into the afternoon, levels gradually decrease, tapering to 9 by 14:00 and falling back to a more manageable 4 by 17:00. By evening, UV levels drop to 2 at 18:00 and retreat to 1 by 19:00, marking a safe return for those looking to enjoy twilight outdoors. Remember, it's essential to stay vigilant during those peak hours!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:008very high15 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:009very high15 min
15:008very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Sydney

As the seasons change, so too does the UV Index, highlighting the need for awareness regarding sun exposure. January and December feature a low UV Index of 2, allowing for longer burn times of 45 minutes. In the spring, the UV Index begins to escalate, with April reaching a high of 7 (high exposure category) and a 25-minute burn time. The summer months, particularly May and June, present the greatest risk with a peak UV Index of 10 and a burn time of just 15 minutes. As we transition into late summer and fall, the UV Index decreases slightly, but September still holds a significant 7, indicating high risk. To ensure safety, residents and visitors should prioritize sun protection, especially from May through September, when UV radiation is at its highest. Appropriate measures include wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Sydney, Canada

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Sydney. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2357910887532
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Sydney, 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 Sydney UV Index with Other Canada Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Sydney compares to other major locations across Canada. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Sydney's solar exposure compared to other cities in Canada. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Edmonton UVI235677876421
Calgary UVI234688987421
Sydney2357910887532
Montreal UVI245799887532
Ottawa UVI245899887532
Toronto UVI245899997532