UV Index in Noumea, New Caledonia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Nouméa, New Caledonia, understanding the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With its Cfa climate, the region experiences tropical conditions where UV levels can rise significantly, particularly during midday hours. Awareness of these levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely. The highest UV readings in Nouméa typically peak between 10 AM and 2 PM, with values climbing to 6—a strong reminder to take precautions during these hours and protect yourself from the sun's rays. Stay informed, stay safe, and soak up the sun wisely!

Hourly UV Index in Noumea

The UV Index in this hourly snapshot reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day. Early morning sees low levels, with a maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, indicating minimal risk for skin damage. As the sun rises higher, the index climbs sharply, peaking at 6 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, where caution is advised due to an increased risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By mid-afternoon, the index starts to drop, falling to 4 at 2:00 PM, and then further declines towards evening, with readings of 2 at 3:00 PM and returning to 1 by 4:00 PM. The day concludes with a relief as the index reaches 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe time to be outdoors without sun protection. This data serves as a reminder to stay vigilant during peak hours to protect your skin!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:006high25 min
12:006high25 min
13:006high25 min
14:004moderate30 min
15:002low45 min
16:001low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Noumea

The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, with January through April presenting extreme levels (UV Index 16-12) and a very brief burn time of just 10 minutes for most months. September and October also reflect extreme conditions with a UV Index of 11-13, while November continues this trend at a UV Index of 14. The summer months of May to July see a decrease in intensity; however, May and August are still categorized as very high, with a burn time of 15 minutes. In June and July, the index drops to high levels (UV Index 6-7), allowing for a longer burn time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from November to April and during peak summer months, ensuring they employ effective sun protection measures, including the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shaded areas throughout peak sun hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Noumea, New Caledonia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Noumea. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161615128671011131516
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Noumea, 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 Noumea UV Index with Other New Caledonia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Noumea 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.
Noumea's solar exposure compared to other cities in New Caledonia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Noumea161615128671011131416
Paita UVI161615128671011131416
Dumbea UVI161615128671011131416
Mont-Dore UVI161615128671011131416
We UVI151616129781012131415