Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Wau, Papua New Guinea, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health against harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day enables residents and visitors to take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With Wau’s tropical Af climate, where UV exposure can spike dramatically—reaching a peak index of 14 at noon—it's vital to stay informed about daily UV readings to ensure safe outdoor activities. Whether you're hiking in the stunning landscapes or enjoying local culture, being UV-aware helps you enjoy all that Wau has to offer while safeguarding your skin against harmful effects.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index makes a notable journey. Beginning at a modest 1 at 07:00, the intensity ramps up swiftly. By 09:00, it hits 5, but the real peak arrives at 12:00 with a powerful 14, signaling the need for sun protection. The sun reaches its zenith at 11:00 with a 12, and a slight decline occurs as we move into the afternoon, dropping to 10 by 14:00. Gradually, the UV levels retreat, falling to 6 at 15:00, and further down to 3 by 16:00. Finally, relief comes as the sun begins to set, with the index sinking to 1 at 17:00 and 0 by 18:00, marking the end of a day filled with vibrant solar energy.
| 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 | 12 | 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 |
The UV Index consistently reflects extreme exposure risks throughout the year, with the highest values observed from January to April, peaking at 18 in February and March. These high-risk months demand heightened awareness, as the burn time is a mere 10 minutes across all months listed. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures during these periods by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize exposure. Even in the warmer months of May to August, with the UV Index remaining high but slightly decreasing, the potential for sunburn remains significant, necessitating continued sun safety practices. As fall approaches, UV levels remain noteworthy, primarily in September and October, with visitors advised to maintain vigilance even as temperatures cool.
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 |
| Wau | 16 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 |
| Mount Hagen UVI | 16 | 17 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 16 |