UV Index in Arawa, Papua New Guinea

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Arawa, Papua New Guinea, where the tropical climate can lead to significant UV exposure. With peak UV levels soaring to 11 during midday hours, being aware of these ratings is vital for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. Knowing when the sun’s rays are most intense helps you make informed decisions about sun safety, ensuring that outdoor activities remain enjoyable and safe. Be mindful of your UV exposure in Arawa, as the sun’s powerful effects can pose risks even on seemingly mild days.

Hourly UV Index in Arawa

The UV Index reveals a dynamic pattern throughout the day, starting at a low 1 in the early morning hours of 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun rises, the index climbs steadily, reaching 3 by 09:00. The midday sun peaks aggressively at 11, with the UV Index hitting its maximum of 11 from 12:00 to 13:00, signaling a high risk for skin damage without protection. Following this peak, values gradually decline, dropping to 9 at 14:00, and tapering down to 6 by 15:00. As the evening approaches, the UV Index falls back to 3 by 16:00 and finally descends to a 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, before sinking to 0 at 19:00, marking the end of the day's UV exposure. It's a reminder to stay vigilant under the sun, especially during those 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	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Arawa

Throughout the year, the UV Index consistently remains at extreme levels, with the highest readings occurring from January to April (peaking at 17 in March). While the index slightly decreases in the summer months of June and July (to 11), it still indicates a significant risk for skin damage with a burn time of just 10 minutes across all months. Notably, February and March are high-risk months, where exposure can lead to severe sunburns very quickly. Therefore, it is essential for both visitors and residents to take serious precautions, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, regardless of the month.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Arawa, Papua New Guinea

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Arawa. 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 Arawa, 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 Arawa UV Index with Other Papua New Guinea Cities

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

Arawa's solar exposure compared to other cities in Papua New Guinea. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Port Moresby UVI	15	16	16	15	12	10	11	13	15	15	14	15
Arawa	15	16	17	16	13	11	11	13	15	15	15	14
Popondetta UVI	16	16	16	15	13	11	12	14	15	16	15	15
Lae UVI	15	17	17	16	13	11	12	14	15	15	15	14
Mount Hagen UVI	16	17	18	17	14	12	13	14	16	16	15	16