Last updated: August 1, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Koumac, New Caledonia. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health, which is particularly important given the region's tropical climate. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 8 between noon and 1 PM, the risk of harmful exposure is significant during these hours. Staying informed about the UV Index can guide you in taking necessary precautions to enjoy Koumac's sunny days safely.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 8 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, signaling a potent need for sun protection. Early morning hours, from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, see a modest index of 1 to 3, ideal for a gentle outdoor start. However, as the clock strikes 10:00 AM, the intensity escalates to 6, urging caution for those venturing outside. The midday sun is fierce, reaching a peak of 7 to 8—the perfect time to seek shade or don protective gear. Following this high, the UV levels decrease steadily, falling back to 3 by 3:00 PM, then tapering off to 1 by late afternoon, and finally dropping to 0 by 6:00 PM. Stay safe and enjoy the sun wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index data reveals significant seasonal fluctuations in UV radiation, with the highest levels observed during the winter and early spring months (January to March) at an alarming 16, classified as extreme, where the burn time is only 10 minutes. Notably, November and December also exhibit an extreme index of 15. April, while slightly lower at 12, still falls within the extreme category, warranting caution. As the year progresses into summer, UV levels decrease slightly, with June at 7 (high), July at 8 (very high), and August peaking again at 10 (very high). September and October mark a return to extreme levels, with indices of 12 and 13, respectively. Residents and visitors, particularly in high-risk months from January to April and again in September to November, should take precautionary measures to minimize exposure: wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun 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 |
| We UVI | 15 | 16 | 16 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Koumac | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |