Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Weston, New Zealand, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels helps you make informed decisions about sun protection, especially during peak hours when the UV Index reaches 3 around midday. With a Cfb climate that provides ample sunshine, residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant about their sun exposure to safeguard against potential skin damage. Stay informed and enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Weston safely!
The UV Index throughout the day offers a clear insight into solar intensity, peaking at 3 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, signaling moderate sun exposure. The day begins with 0 UV at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to 1 by 8:00 AM and maintaining a low level until 10:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index reaches 2 by mid-morning and then stabilizes at 3 during the lunch hours, suggesting the need for sun protection. By mid-afternoon, numbers dip back to 2 and diminish further to 1 as the evening approaches. Finally, the UV Index returns to 0 after 6:00 PM, marking a transition into a safer time to enjoy the outdoors without risk of sunburn.
| 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 | 2 | low | 45 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 index values exhibit significant seasonal changes. The highest risk months are January, February, and December, when the UV index reaches its peak at 13 and 12, categorizing sun exposure as extreme, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. Following closely, March and November also present high UV levels, categorized as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should take extra precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing and sunscreen. As we transition into April and October, the risk decreases slightly but remains notable at high and very high levels, respectively. The summer months of June and July experience a drop to a low UV index of 2, but attention should still be paid during transitional months like August and September, when the index returns to moderate levels. It's crucial for everyone to stay informed and adjust their sun exposure habits according to these seasonal fluctuations.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weston | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 |
| Christchurch UVI | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
| 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 |