UV Index in Russell, New Zealand

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Russell, New Zealand, where the sun's intensity can vary significantly throughout the day. Awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. Given Russell's mild maritime climate, characterized by warm summers and high UV exposure, it's important to stay informed about the potential risks, especially during peak hours when the UV Index reaches levels of 3. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in protecting your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoors!

Hourly UV Index in Russell

The UV Index data reveals a gentle rise in sun exposure as the day unfolds. Starting from a calm 0 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs to peak at 3 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, signaling the most intense sun exposure during midday. As the clock ticks past 2:00 PM, the index gently declines, reaching a soothing 1 by late afternoon, before tapering off completely to 0 by 6:00 PM. For sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, the midday hours demand precaution, while the early morning and late evening provide enjoyable, low-UVI moments.

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
07:000low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:001low45 min
10:002low45 min
11:003moderate30 min
12:003moderate30 min
13:003moderate30 min
14:002low45 min
15:001low45 min
16:001low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Russell

The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring during the winter months of January, February, and December, where an extreme risk level is present (UV Index 14) with a burn time of just 10 minutes. March also remains perilous with a UV Index of 11, classified as extreme. As spring approaches, April sees a decrease to a very high level (UV Index 8), while May and June shift to a moderate range (UV Index 5 and 3, respectively), allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes. In the late summer and early fall, UV levels remain moderate but peak again in September (UV Index 7), transitioning to a very high level in October (UV Index 10) and rising back to extreme in November (UV Index 12). Residents and visitors should take precautions during the high-risk months of January, February, March, October, and November by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and limiting direct sunlight exposure to mitigate the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Russell, New Zealand

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Russell. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141411853358101214
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Russell, 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 Russell UV Index with Other New Zealand Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Russell compares to other major locations across New Zealand. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Russell's solar exposure compared to other cities in New Zealand. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Christchurch UVI1312963223591012
Wellington UVI1313974224691013
Hamilton UVI141410743357101113
Manukau City UVI141410743357101113
Auckland UVI141410743357101113
Russell141411853357101214