UV Index in La Foa, New Caledonia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of La Foa, New Caledonia, where the sun's rays can quickly escalate from moderate to extreme levels throughout the day. Awareness of these UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health but also plays a significant role in reducing long-term skin damage. With La Foa's tropical climate, you can expect heightened UV exposure, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the index peaks at a high of 9. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to enjoy the outdoors safely!

Hourly UV Index in La Foa

The UV Index reveals a dynamic shift throughout the day, beginning with a mild level of 1 at 07:00. As the sun rises higher, it peaks dramatically at 12:00 with a robust 9, indicating high exposure risk for unprotected skin. This intensity continues until 13:00, where it dips to 7, before gradually declining throughout the afternoon. By 15:00, the index lowers to 3, providing a more moderate environment for outdoor activities. As the evening sets in, the UV Index drops quickly, finishing the day at 0 by 19:00. It’s a clear reminder of the sun’s powerful influence—stay protected during the peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	7	high	25 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in La Foa

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for La Foa, New Caledonia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in La Foa. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for La Foa, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare La Foa UV Index with Other New Caledonia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in La Foa compares to other major locations across New Caledonia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

La Foa's solar exposure compared to other cities in New Caledonia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
La Foa	16	16	15	12	9	7	8	10	12	13	15	16