Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Kaala-Gomen, New Caledonia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's tropical climate, UV levels can vary significantly throughout the day, peaking around noon when values reach as high as 7. Being aware of these UV levels allows residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions, ensuring enjoyable outdoor activities without the damaging effects of sun exposure. Let's delve into the UV Index trends specific to Kaala-Gomen, and arm ourselves with the knowledge to protect our skin under the island sun.
The UV Index reveals a dynamic day of sun exposure. Beginning at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, the index gradually rises, hitting 3 by 9:00 AM. A significant surge occurs at 10:00 AM, with the UV Index climbing to 5, peaking at an intense 7 at 12:00 PM. The intensity then begins to decline, with values of 6 at 1:00 PM, dropping to 4 by 2:00 PM, and further decreasing to 3 at 3:00 PM. As the afternoon wanes, the index returns to 1 by 4:00 PM and finally falls to 0 after 6:00 PM, marking a gentler evening. It's a reminder to stay sun-smart during those midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the winter months. January to April consistently show an extreme exposure category, with a UV Index peaking at 16 and a rapid burn time of only 10 minutes. September through November also remain critical, maintaining an extreme exposure level, while May to August sees a slight reduction, categorizing the exposure as very high to high. Notably, the summer months of July and August still pose a risk, with burn times between 15 to 25 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from October to March, when UV levels are consistently extreme, emphasizing the need for effective sun protection strategies, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, while seeking shade during peak UV hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paita UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Dumbea UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Mont-Dore UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Noumea UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Kaala-Gomen | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| We UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |