Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Kaala-Gomen, New Caledonia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the area's tropical climate, which can lead to intense sun exposure. With UV levels peaking around midday, reaching a maximum of 9 at noon, being aware of UV ratings can help you take proactive measures to protect your skin. As you enjoy the beautiful outdoors, remember that even on lower UV days, such as in the early morning with an index of 2, skin damage can still occur. Stay informed and keep your skin safe while soaking up the sun in this picturesque locale!
The UV Index starts off gently at 1 around 7:00 AM, gradually rising to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks at 12:00 PM with a stunning 9, signaling a high risk for overexposure. The afternoon sees a slight decline, tapering to 8 at 1:00 PM and 5 by 2:00 PM, before swiftly dropping to 3 and 1 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels plunge to 0 by 6:00 PM, offering a reprieve as the sun sets. It's clear that midday is the time to take protective measures, ensuring you enjoy the sunshine safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | 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 |