Check the UV Index
The UV Index level changes throughout the day, every day. The website colour is based on the last Sydney reading of the UV Index from data generated at certain times of the day (4:30am, 8:30am, 11:30am, 4pm), which means that the UV Index may have changed since then. This information is sourced from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.
Most importantly, take note of the information found on the right-hand side panel of the website:
- Times when the UV Index is low. This is when no sun protection is required when you head outdoors.
- Times when the UV Index is moderate to high. At these times, the level of UVR can cause skin damage. The five sun protection measures are easy ways to protect your skin.
- Times when the UV Index is very high to extreme. This is when the UVR is at its highest and most dangerous. At these times, you should try to avoid being outdoors altogether and if outdoors, the five sun protection measures are a must. Seek shade and wear protective clothing, sunglasses, a broad brimmed hat and sunscreen.
To find out the UV Index in your city, download the Desktop UV Index Tool
Once you know your skin type, make sure you are aware of the UV Index for the day. The UV Index is a measure of how strong the ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun is at a particular place on a particular day. This handy information will help you plan your daily sun protection needs.
The index ranges from zero upwards. The higher the value, the greater the amount of UVR and therefore, the greater the risk of skin and eye damage. The UV Alert is issued by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.
The table below shows the different categories of UV Index values. Only at the low level (2 or less) is the UVR at a level which will not damage skin.
|
2 or less
|
 Low
|
You can safely stay outdoors with minimal protection.
|
|
3 to 5
|
Moderate
|
At these times, the level of UVR can cause skin damage. The five sun protection measures are easy ways to protect your skin.
|
|
6 to 7
|
High
|
At these times, the level of UVR can cause skin damage. The five sun protection measures are easy ways to protect your skin
|
|
8 to 10
|
Very High
|
This is when UVR is at its highest and most dangerous. At these times, you should try to avoid being outdoors altogether and if outdoors, the five sun protection measures are required.
|
|
11 or higher
|
Extreme
|
This is when UVR is at its highest and most dangerous. At these times, you should try to avoid being outdoors altogether and if outdoors, the five sun protection measures are required.
|
| Source: Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency |
Remember, UVR cannot be seen or felt and may be high even on cool or cloudy days. When you are checking the weather forecast before you go out, check the UV Index at the same time. Remember to follow the five easy ways to protect your skin from sun damage, particularly whenever the UV Index is three and above.
Download the UV Index Weather tool to help you plan your sun protection needs before you head outdoors.
Check the UV Index in your city today: www.bom.gov.au/products/uvindex_national.shtml
Interesting links:
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency: Australian UV Index: www.arpansa.gov.au/uvindex/daily/ausuvindex.htm
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency: Ultraviolet radiation reference: www.arpansa.gov.au/uvrg/rginfo_p2.html