Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Morehead, Papua New Guinea, where the tropical climate brings frequent exposure to the sun's harmful rays. With UV levels peaking at 12 around midday, awareness of these readings can be vital in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. As you explore this vibrant region, it’s important to recognize that even mild exposure can lead to long-term effects, making it essential to plan outdoor activities accordingly. Whether you're enjoying the beaches or engaging in local adventures, knowing the UV Index can help you stay safe while making the most of Morehead’s unique environment.
The UV Index today paints a vivid picture of the sun's intensity as it climbs briskly throughout the morning. Starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00, it escalates to a moderate 2 by 08:00. However, the real peak arrives at 11:00, where the UV Index surges to an eye-opening 10, and reaches its highest point of 12 by 12:00, signaling the need for sun protection. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins its descent, dropping to 6 by 15:00, and continuing to mellow towards 3 at 16:00. As the sun sets, the index falls back to a comfortable 1 by 17:00, culminating in a 0 at 19:00. A good reminder to be cautious during the midday hours when the sun is at its strongest!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant changes, with extreme exposure levels predominating from January through November, peaking at 16 in February and March. The high-risk months for sun exposure are January, February, March, April, and July, where the UV Index remains consistently high at 15-16. Even in the summer, though the UV Index slightly decreases in June to 10, it still falls within the very high category. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures—from wearing sunscreen and protective clothing to seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours—to avoid harmful effects of UV radiation. Remember: direct sun exposure of as little as 10 minutes can lead to sunburn in high-risk months!
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 |
| Morehead | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 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 |