UV Index in Kokoda, Papua New Guinea

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Kokoda, Papua New Guinea, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels is particularly important in this tropical climate, where the sun's intensity can peak sharply; for instance, the UV Index often reaches as high as 13 around noon. With these elevated levels, taking proactive measures against UV exposure is essential to preserve your skin and overall well-being. Stay informed about the UV Index to enjoy your outdoor adventures while minimizing the risks associated with intense sunlight.

Hourly UV Index in Kokoda

At dawn, the UV Index starts off gently at 1 by 7:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, it reaches 2 by 8:00 AM and escalates swiftly to 4 by 9:00 AM, signaling the beginning of peak sun exposure. The intensity peaks around 12:00 PM, soaring to an impressive 13, making it crucial to seek shade or apply sunscreen. In the early afternoon, the index remains elevated at 12 by 1:00 PM, before gradually declining to 9 by 2:00 PM. As the day wanes, the index drops to 6 at 3:00 PM, then further decreases to 3 by 4:00 PM. By the evening, the sun's influence wanes significantly, returning to a safe 1 at 5:00 PM and dropping to 0 after 6:00 PM. It's essential to stay mindful of UV levels during the peak hours of 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM!

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	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	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	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kokoda

The UV Index consistently remains extremely high throughout the year, ranging from 12 to 17, with an average burn time of just 10 minutes during peak exposure months. Notable high-risk months include January through April, where the index stays above 16, and October, which peaks at 17 again. This persistent intensity signifies that visitors and residents should take serious precautions against UV exposure all year round. It is advisable to wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours to reduce the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kokoda, Papua New Guinea

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kokoda 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.

Kokoda'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 UVI	15	17	17	16	13	11	12	14	15	15	15	14
Kokoda	17	17	17	16	13	12	13	15	16	17	16	16
Mount Hagen UVI	16	17	18	17	14	12	13	14	16	16	15	16