Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Finschhafen, Papua New Guinea, where the tropical climate brings high sun exposure. Awareness of UV levels plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, particularly during peak hours when the index reaches its maximum at noon with a striking 12. With a typical year-round climate categorized as Af, Finschhafen residents must be mindful of the risks associated with outdoor activities, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, when UV radiation can be at its most intense. Stay informed and safeguard your skin against harmful UV rays while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of this coastal haven.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dynamic range of solar intensity, peaking at 12 around noon. Starting the day gently, the index registers a low 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to 2 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, it reaches 5 by 9:00 AM, then surges to a robust 11 by 11:00 AM, signaling higher caution for outdoor activities. The peak at midday is a daunting 12, urging everyone to seek shade and wear protective gear. The intensity begins to taper off in the afternoon, dropping back to 8 at 2:00 PM and further to 5 by 3:00 PM. By the late afternoon, the index drops significantly to 1 at 5:00 PM and settles at 0 by 6:00 PM, giving a gentle reminder that the sun's might can vary dramatically throughout the day.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, indicating extreme exposure risk. From January to April, the UV Index peaks at 17, with a burn time of just 10 minutes, making these months particularly hazardous for skin exposure. May to July see a slight drop to a UV Index of 13-12, yet the risk remains significant, with an unchanged burn time. The UV Index then rises to 14 in August, before returning to 16 in September and October, followed by a decline to 15 in November and December. Given this data, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautionary measures year-round by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize UV exposure and protect skin health.
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 |
| Finschhafen | 16 | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 |
| Mount Hagen UVI | 16 | 17 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 16 |