Last updated: May 3, 2025
Invercargill, New Zealand, nestled in a milder oceanic climate (Cfb), often experiences low to moderate UV Index levels, making awareness of sun exposure critical for residents and visitors alike. Understanding the UV Index is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting skin health, particularly during peak hours when levels can rise to 3 between 12 PM and 1 PM. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely outdoor activity or simply running errands, staying informed about UV levels helps safeguard your skin against potential harm. With the unique weather patterns of Invercargill, knowing when to take precautions can make all the difference in maintaining your health under the sun.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a gradual rise and fall in intensity. Starting at a cool 0 at 07:00, the index slowly climbs, reaching 1 by 08:00 and staying steady until 10:00. A noticeable upswing occurs around 11:00, peaking at 3 from 12:00 to 13:00, signaling the peak sun exposure hours. As the afternoon rolls in, the index dips back to 2 between 14:00 and 15:00, before declining again to 1 by 16:00. Finally, the day winds down with a return to 0 by 18:00, ensuring a safe evening for outdoor activities. Remember to protect your skin during those peak 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 11:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the highest values occurring during the winter and late fall months. January and December are particularly concerning, both having an index of 12 and classified as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Meanwhile, February and November also present high risks, with indices of 11 and 9, respectively, demanding similar caution. As spring approaches, the UV Index decreases, peaking at 8 in March and October, categorized as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes. By summer, the risk diminishes, with June and July classified as low, allowing for longer exposure times of 45 minutes. However, caution should still be taken in August and September, as the index returns to moderate levels at 3 and 5. Visitors and residents are advised to prioritize sun safety, especially from November to March, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Invercargill | 12 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 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 |