Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kainantu, Papua New Guinea, where the tropical climate and high-altitude location significantly influence daily sun exposure. Awareness of UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health, as even moderate UV rays can lead to harmful effects. With UV Index peaks reaching as high as 14 during midday hours, locals and visitors alike must take proactive measures to protect themselves. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Kainantu while safeguarding your skin from potential damage.
As the sun rises, the UV Index steadily climbs, starting at a moderate 1 at 07:00 and reaching a significant 14 by 12:00, marking the peak of the day. Between 10:00 and 13:00, UV levels soar, peaking at 13 for a few hours, a reminder to stay protected under the midday sun. However, as the afternoon wanes, the index drops sharply, down to 6 by 15:00, before continuing to decline to 3 at 16:00 and ultimately returning to a safe 0 by 18:00. This data underscores the importance of being sun-smart during peak hours when the risk of UV exposure is at its highest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains extremely high, particularly from January to April, where it consistently reaches values of 17 to 18. These months pose the highest risk for sunburn, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As the year progresses, the UV Index slightly decreases, averaging around 12 to 15 from May to August, before rising again to 16 to 17 in the fall months of September to November. Despite these variations, all months indicate an extreme exposure category, emphasizing the importance of protection. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions year-round, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak UV hours.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
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 |
Kainantu | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 16 | 16 |