UV Index in Lae, Papua New Guinea

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Lae, Papua New Guinea, is essential for safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With its tropical Af climate, Lae experiences high UV exposure, particularly during midday when the index can soar to 12, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these UV levels allows residents and visitors to take necessary precautions, ensuring safe outdoor activities while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Protecting your skin is not just about comfort; it’s key to long-term health and well-being in this sun-drenched paradise.

Hourly UV Index in Lae

The UV Index for the day illustrates a clear pattern of rising intensity as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting at 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs to 2 by 8:00 AM, signaling the start of a moderately low UV risk. By 9:00 AM, it hits 4, marking the onset of more noticeable sun exposure. The sun reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM, where the UV index peaks at an intense 12—a critical time for sun safety. As afternoon gives way to evening, the index begins to decline, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and sinking to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, by 7:00 PM, the UV threat diminishes entirely, with a reading of 0. A day's journey through UV risk highlights the importance of protection during those midday 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	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	12	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 Lae

Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain exceptionally high, with values mostly ranging from 11 to 17, classifying exposure as extreme. The high-risk months are from January to April when the UV Index peaks at 17 in February and March. Even as the year progresses into the summer months, the UV Index remains significantly elevated, with burn times as short as 10 minutes across all months. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats, and to seek shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of skin damage. It’s essential to remain vigilant year-round, as the risk of harm from UV exposure persists even in the cooler months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Lae, Papua New Guinea

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Lae 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.

Lae'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
Popondetta UVI	16	16	16	15	13	11	12	14	15	16	15	15
Lae	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