UV Index in Kokoda, Papua New Guinea

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Kokoda, Papua New Guinea, where exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays can lead to serious skin issues and sunburns. With its tropical climate characterized by high UV levels peaking at 13 around noon, awareness of these metrics is essential for maintaining skin health and ensuring outdoor activities remain safe. By tracking the daily UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself from excessive sun exposure, especially during the most intense hours and avoid the risk of damage associated with Kokoda’s vibrant sun.

Hourly UV Index in Kokoda

The UV Index (UVI) begins its ascent at 07:00, reaching a modest 1, but as the sun climbs higher, so does the intensity. By 09:00, it hits 6, pushing outdoor enthusiasts to take notice. The peak occurs at 12:00, where the UVI soars to a scorching 13, indicating the need for sun protection. This high level remains at 12 until 13:00, before gradually tapering off to 9 by 14:00. As the afternoon progresses, the UVI then dips to 5 at 15:00, and continues to decline, hitting 2 at 16:00. Finally, the day winds down with the UVI falling to 1 by 17:00, and then sinking to 0 after 18:00, offering a reprieve from the sun's harsh rays for the evening.

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	9	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	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 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