Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With UV levels peaking around midday, understanding these fluctuations can help residents and visitors alike enjoy the outdoors safely. The tropical climate here means that UV exposure risks are significant, especially between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM, when the index can soar to a high of 14. Prioritizing UV awareness not only safeguards your skin but also enhances your overall well-being in this stunning mountainous region.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking peak in intensity around noon. Starting from a mild 1 at 07:00, the levels gradually rise to a more noticeable 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, the index jumps to 5, signaling a strong sun, but the real heat kicks in by 10:00, soaring to a staggering 9. As the clock strikes 11:00, the index reaches its zenith at an impressive 14, highlighting a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This intensity remains high until 13:00, with a slight dip to 13, and then gradually declines, dropping to 11 by 14:00. As the afternoon fades, the UV rays lessen, tumbling to 7 by 15:00, and continuing to decline until evening, settling back to 1 by 17:00, before falling to 0 by 19:00. It's a vivid reminder to embrace shade and protection during those peak hours!
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows extreme levels throughout the year, with particularly heightened exposure from January to March where the UV Index peaks at 16-18. These months, along with April and September, are identified as high-risk periods, presenting a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant during these months by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible, particularly during midday hours. Even in months where the UV Index fluctuates (such as June through August), the exposure remains in the extreme category, reinforcing the need for continual sun protection year-round.
UV Risk Categories
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 |
Mount Hagen | 16 | 17 | 18 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 16 |