Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Porgera, Papua New Guinea, where the sun’s intensity can pose significant risks. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 13 during midday, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Porgera’s climate, characterized by its warm temperatures and high altitude, exacerbates UV exposure, making it imperative to protect yourself during outdoor activities. Stay informed and safeguard your skin by monitoring the UV Index regularly!
At dawn, the UV Index starts gently at 1 around 07:00, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. The real action begins at 09:00, where it spikes to 4, setting the stage for a brilliant morning. By 10:00, the intensity escalates to 8, and just after 11:00, it peaks at a striking 11. Lunchtime sees the UV Index soar to a blazing 13 at 12:00, staying strong at 12 until 13:00. The afternoon brings a gradual decline, dropping to 10 by 14:00 and then to 6 at 15:00. As the sun begins its descent, the UV levels ease to 3 at 16:00, returning to 1 by 17:00, and then lingering at 1 until twilight at 18:00. Finally, as night falls by 19:00, the UV Index fades to a peaceful 0, signaling the end of a vibrant day under the sun.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variations, peaking in the early months of the year. From January through April, values are consistently high, with February and March reaching a maximum of 19, categorized as extreme and necessitating a burn time of just 10 minutes. The risk remains elevated into May and early June, before slightly decreasing during the summer months of July and August at 13-15. However, September marks a return to elevated levels at 17, continuing through October to November, underscoring a persistent risk throughout the year. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to protect themselves from harmful UV exposure, especially during these high-risk months, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible, given the consistent 10-minute burn time across all months.
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 |
| Porgera | 17 | 19 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 17 |