UV Index in Aitape, Papua New Guinea

Last updated: August 1, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Aitape, Papua New Guinea. By keeping an eye on the UV levels, you can effectively prevent sunburn and protect your skin from long-term damage. With Aitape's tropical Af climate, the sun's rays can reach dangerous levels, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index peaks at 12. Being informed about these fluctuations not only helps you enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely but also supports overall skin health in this stunning coastal region. Stay safe, stay aware!

Hourly UV Index in Aitape

As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low, peaking only at 1 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. However, excitement builds as the day progresses, with a sharp increase to 3 by 9:00 AM. The intensity surges dramatically around 10:00 AM, hitting 7, and reaches its zenith at 12:00 PM with a scorching 12—a clear signal to seek shade and protect your skin! The afternoon sees a slight decline, yet 11 at 1:00 PM and 10 at 2:00 PM keep the caution necessary. As evening approaches, the UV levels drop swiftly, winding down to 4 by 4:00 PM, and receding further to a safe 1 by 5:00 PM, before fading into 0 at 7:00 PM. This fluctuating UV journey highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during the midday hours!

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	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Aitape

The UV Index exhibits high levels throughout the year, peaking in the early months with values reaching 17 in January, February, and March, characterized as having an extreme exposure category and a minimal burn time of only 10 minutes. Notably, the high-risk months for UV exposure are January to April, where the index consistently stays between 15 and 17. As summer approaches, the UV Index gradually decreases but remains significant, ranging from 12 to 14 from June to November, still classified as extreme. This pattern highlights an ongoing risk for skin damage year-round, advising visitors and residents to employ strict sun protection measures, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during midday hours to minimize exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Aitape, Papua New Guinea

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Aitape 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.

Aitape'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
Aitape	15	17	17	16	14	12	12	13	15	15	14	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