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Australian UV-Index Models

The UV-Index model is an indication of the maximum daily level of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) expected at ground level on a cloudless day. ARPANSA calculates the models for each site using a computer modelling program that considers, among other parameters, the time of year and averaged ozone values.

The graph displays the monthly average UV-Index value that can be expected at solar noon (when the sun is highest in the sky) at this location. On the graph, each month is shown as two two-week blocks. The actual values could be slightly higher or lower than the averaged model depending on ozone levels and atmospheric conditions, particularly cloud cover.

Click here to view the actual measured UV-Index values for Melbourne. These monthly summaries show the variability in measured UV-Index due to local weather conditions compared to the computer model.


UV-Index for Melbourne, Australia

UV-Index model for Melbourne, Australia

What the UV-Index model means

Over exposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause short term health effects such as sunburn. Long term exposure to ultraviolet radiation can increase the risk of damage to the skin and eyes which may result in skin cancers and cataracts. You can use the UV-Index model as a guide to what levels of solar UV radiation can be expected at different times of the year and what sun protection precautions are appropriate. The highest UV levels occur daily between 10am and 2pm (11 to 3 during daylight saving time). When the UV level reaches 3 or higher a combination of five sun protection measures (sun protective clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and shade) may be required for personal protection.

The UV-Index value indicates the maximum daily level of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and is related to UVR exposure as follows:

Colour Code UV-Index Level Exposure Category Sun Protection Precautions
UV-Index colour key 2 or less Low You can safely stay outdoors with minimal protection.
UV-Index colour key 3 to 5 Moderate Wear sun protective clothing, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and seek shady areas.
UV-Index colour key 6 to 7 High As above.
UV-Index colour key 8 to 10 Very High As above.
UV-Index colour key 11 or higher Extreme As above.

The actual measured UV-Index values can be viewed at the ARPANSA UV-Index Reports page.


Further information about the UV-Index

Refer to the ARPANSA UV Resource Guide and the ARPANSA UV-Index information sheet.

Information about UV models can be found on the Australian UV models page.

Refer to the ARPANSA UV information page for other presentations of UV information.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) publishes a Global solar UV index fact sheet.

UV Alert image

The latest SunSmart UV Alert can be found at the Bureau of Meterology.

Further information about the SunSmart UV Alert can be found at SunSmart.



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Updated by Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency - 24/04/2007
URL: http://www.arpansa.gov.au/uvindex/models/meluvmodel.htm
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