Last updated: May 3, 2025
In West Eyreton, New Zealand, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and promotes long-term skin health, especially in a region where the climate can fluctuate between mild and cool. The UV Index readings in West Eyreton typically peak around midday, reaching levels of 3, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With this in mind, staying informed about the UV Index can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your health against potential risks associated with UV radiation.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a gradual increase in sun intensity, peaking mid-afternoon. Starting at 0 at 07:00, the index rises to 1 by 08:00 and remains moderate at 1 for the following hour. As the sun ascends, the intensity reaches 2 by 10:00, climbing further to 3 at 11:00, sustaining this level until 14:00. After this peak, a gentle decline begins, with the index dropping to 2 at 15:00, and gradually easing back to 1 by 17:00, before retreating to 0 by 18:00. For anyone spending time outdoors, the late morning to early afternoon presents the highest UV exposure; thus, caution and sun protection are highly advisable during these hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 3 | 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 levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk months occurring from January to March and then again in November and December. During these months, the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 13, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes, necessitating precautionary measures. As spring approaches, March brings a very high rating of 9, with a burn time of 15 minutes, while April and early fall months like September see a decrease to high levels with a UV Index of 6 (burn time 25 minutes). In the summer months of June and July, the index drops to low at 2, allowing for up to 45 minutes of exposure without significant risk. However, as August rolls in, it climbs back to moderate, reaching 4. Thus, it is imperative for visitors and residents to remain vigilant during the extreme and very high months, employing sun safety strategies like using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever necessary, particularly in the high-risk periods.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christchurch UVI | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
| West Eyreton | 13 | 13 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 13 |
| Wellington UVI | 13 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 13 |
| Hamilton UVI | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 |
| Manukau City UVI | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 |
| Auckland UVI | 14 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 |