UV Index in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors alike. Understanding UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining overall skin health. With a tropical climate characterized by high levels of sunshine, Port Moresby experiences notable UV exposure, especially around midday when the index peaks at a striking 12. This underscores the need for vigilance and protection during the sun's most intense hours, ensuring your time outdoors remains enjoyable and safe.

Hourly UV Index in Port Moresby

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Port Moresby

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Port Moresby 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.

Port Moresby'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	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