Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bourail, New Caledonia, where the sun shines brightly and the risk of sunburn is ever-present. As temperatures rise, particularly during midday hours when the UV Index peaks at 8, being aware of these levels can significantly aid in preventing skin damage and maintaining overall skin health. With its tropical climate, Bourail experiences varying UV exposure throughout the day, making it vital to comprehend how to protect yourself from harmful rays, especially between the hours of 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when the UV Index can soar. Stay informed and sun-safe in this beautiful coastal paradise!
The UV Index data paints a vivid picture of sun exposure throughout the day. In the early hours, from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, the UV Index remains low, peaking at only 1. However, as the sun climbs higher, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, it surges to 8 at noon, marking the peak of solar intensity. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with the index dropping to 5 at 2:00 PM and further to 3 by 3:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV levels plummet back to a safe 1 by 4:00 PM, and the sun's diminishing rays result in a 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling a welcome reprieve from UV exposure. Essentially, the peak intensity occurs during midday hours, highlighting the importance of seeking shade and wearing protection during these critical hours.
| 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with extreme levels dominating from January to April and again in September to November. Notably, the highest UV readings occur in January, February, and December at 16, demanding utmost caution with a burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months include March and April, where the Index remains at 15 and 12, respectively, both still classified as extreme. As we transition into the summer, UV levels drop slightly, peaking in July and August at very high levels of 8 and 10, allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. It’s crucial for visitors and residents to protect themselves, particularly from March to April and September to November, by using adequate sun protection measures, limiting exposure during peak hours, and wearing protective clothing and sunscreen at all times to minimize skin damage.
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 |
| Bourail | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |