Atmosphere

The UV Index is a measure of the intensity of UV radiation. The larger the number, the more intense the UV. In New Zealand, its maximum summer value is generally about 12, but it can exceed 13 in the far North. In winter it reaches peak values of 1 or 2. Values of 10 or more should be considered as "extreme". At high altitude tropical sites (eg Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii), the UV Index can exceed 20.The UV Index supersedes the idea of "Time to Burn" or "Burn Time", which has been used previously in New Zealand.

Reports produced by NIWA’s air quality research.

Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) is measured continuously at Baring Head, providing the longest running record of this type in the Southern hemisphere.

Plots of UV levels throughout the day at different locations.

The High Performance Computing Facility (HPCF) is supercharging New Zealand science—powering scientists working at the forefront of New Zealand’s greatest science challenges.

Methane (CH4) is the second most important greenhouse gas after CO2 that is produced by human activities.

NIWA has developed personal UV dosimeter badges to support studies relating UV exposure to human health.

A glossary of common climate change and meteorological terms.

The current method for calculating wind speed-up is inadequate, and can grossly under-predict correct design wind speeds in NZ's complex terrain.

More information about NIWA's UV Atlas

Information about climate and weather and links to climate-related websites.

Several apps that provide forecasts of the UV index (UVI) are available for smartphones.