Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Cromwell, New Zealand, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health, especially under the region's pleasant Cfb climate. As sun exposure increases during the day, even moderate UV levels can lead to sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health concerns. With peak UV readings reaching 3 around midday, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about daily UV levels to ensure effective sun safety. By being aware of the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoor activities Cromwell has to offer while taking the necessary precautions to safeguard your skin.
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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring in the winter and late fall months. Notably, January and December showcase an extreme exposure category (UV Index 13), with a burn time of just 10 minutes. February and November also pose high risks at a UV Index of 12 and 10 respectively, categorized as extreme and very high. The risk moderates slightly in the spring, peaking in March at 9 (very high) and tapering off by May. June and July see lower indices (2, low exposure) but increase again in August and September. Given these fluctuations, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take proactive measures, particularly from January to February and October to November, by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure.
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 |
| Cromwell | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 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 |