Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Vao, New Caledonia, as it provides vital information about sun exposure risks throughout the day. With intense sunlight typical of this tropical climate, knowing the UV levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, safeguarding your health while enjoying outdoor activities. During peak hours, especially from 10 AM to 1 PM, UV Index values can reach as high as 8, indicating a significant risk for skin injury. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and fully relish the vibrant beauty of Vao.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 2, signaling a mild increase in UV exposure. The intensity heats up quickly, reaching a moderate 4 by 9:00 AM, before hitting its peak of 8 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This is the prime time for sun safety awareness! After noon, the UV Index gradually declines; by 3:00 PM, it recedes to 3, and as the day wanes, it drops significantly to 1 by 4:00 PM. By evening, UV levels have diminished, reaching 0 by 6:00 PM, offering a reprieve from the sun’s rays.
| 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 | 8 | 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with extreme exposure levels dominating from January to April, peaking in February at an index of 16, where the burn time is just 10 minutes. Following this, the index begins to decline, reaching a very high category in May and August, where the burn time increases to 15 minutes. The summer months of June and July show a high UV Index of 6 to 7, allowing for slightly longer exposure times of 25 minutes. As autumn approaches, September and October return to the extreme category, with quick burn times of 10 minutes again seen. November continues this trend, before the year closes with December’s UV Index climbing back to 16. Residents and visitors should take precautions during high-risk months, particularly from January to April and again in September, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce risks associated with UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vao | 15 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| 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 |