Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, understanding the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Exposure to high UV levels can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, making awareness crucial for both residents and visitors alike. With a tropical climate characterized by intense sun exposure, Port Moresby often experiences significant UV risks, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index peaks at 10, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and enjoy the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that this beautiful region has to offer.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a compelling narrative of sun exposure, peaking at a staggering 10 at 12:00 PM, indicating a need for caution. As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs from 1 at 7:00 AM to a notable 4 by 9:00 AM. The ascent continues, reaching 9 by 11:00 AM, before hitting its maximum at noon. However, as the afternoon progresses, the intensity wanes, with readings dropping to 7 by 2:00 PM and eventually falling to 1 by 5:00 PM. As twilight approaches, the Index dips to 0 after 6:00 PM, promising safe evening conditions. Engaging with the sun requires awareness; ensure you're protected during those peak hours!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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, UV Index levels exhibit significant fluctuations, particularly peaking during the first half. From January to April, the UV Index remains high, consistently at 15-16, categorized as extreme, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. May marks a slight decrease to 12 (still extreme), before the index dips to 10 in June, classified as very high with a longer burn time of 15 minutes. The months of July through November continue to pose risks, with UV Index values returning to the extreme range, notably in August (at 13) and maintaining a 15 in September and October. December similarly sees a UV Index of 15. Given this data, high-risk months for UV exposure are from January to November, with January through April and July through September being especially critical. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures year-round, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Moresby | 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 |