UV Index in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for everyone living in or visiting Rabaul, Papua New Guinea. With its tropical climate, Rabaul experiences elevated UV levels that can lead to sunburn and long-term skin health issues if precautions aren't taken. Prominent UV exposure peaks during midday, reaching a maximum of 12 at noon, making it essential to stay informed about daily UV forecasts. By knowing the UV Index, residents and tourists alike can take proactive measures to protect their skin and enjoy the beauty of Rabaul safely and responsibly.

Hourly UV Index in Rabaul

The UV Index throughout the day paints a vivid picture of sun intensity, peaking dramatically around noon. Beginning with a gentle start at 1 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily, reaching 3 by 08:00 and hitting 5 at 09:00. The sun asserts its power by 10:00, blasting to 9, and continues to soar to a scorching maximum of 12 at 12:00. As the afternoon progresses, the readings begin to decline, dropping to 10 at 13:00, then to 8 at 14:00. By 15:00, the index has already dipped to 4, transitioning to 2 by 16:00. As daylight wanes, the UV Index gently fades to 1 by 17:00 and finally retreats to 0 by 18:00, offering a gentle reminder to seek shade 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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	10	very high	15 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Rabaul

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently extreme, with values peaking in the early months. From January to March, the UV Index reaches a high of 17, signaling that these are high-risk months for sun exposure, where a burn can occur in just 10 minutes. As spring progresses into summer, the index slightly declines but remains elevated at 12-13 by June through August. Even in the fall and winter months, the Index stays between 14-15, emphasizing the persistent need for sun protection. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions year-round, such as wearing sunscreen, donning protective clothing, and seeking shade to avoid harmful UV exposure, especially during the peak months from January to April.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Rabaul, Papua New Guinea

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rabaul 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.

Rabaul'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 UVI	15	16	17	16	13	11	11	13	15	15	15	14
Rabaul	15	17	17	16	13	12	12	13	15	14	14	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