Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Phuntsholing, Bhutan, where the climate features significant sunlight exposure. With UV levels peaking between 10 AM and 1 PM, reaching a maximum of 11, being aware of these fluctuations helps protect against sunburn and long-term skin health issues. In this vibrant town—which experiences a Cwa climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters—unprotected skin can face serious risks from harmful UV radiation. Staying informed about the daily UV Index empowers you to enjoy the outdoors safely while safeguarding your skin from the sun's potentially damaging effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting from a gentle 3 at 07:00. By 09:00, it peaks to an intense 9, reaching its highest point of 11 at both 10:00 and 11:00. The midday sun demands caution, as UV levels remain elevated with 10 at 12:00 before tapering off. After a brief decline, the index drops to 8 by 13:00, and continues its descent to 5 at 14:00. By 15:00, UV exposure decreases significantly to 3, and by 16:00, it falls to a safe 1. As evening approaches, the UV Index dwindles to 0 by 18:00, marking the end of a gorgeously sunlit day with minimal UV risks. Remember to take precautions during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 09:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, with higher levels during the summer months. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from March to September, where the index peaks at 14 in July, indicating an extreme risk level with a burn time of only 10 minutes. Visitors and residents alike should take precautions during these months, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen with a high SPF to mitigate the effects of UV radiation. Notably, even in October and November, the UV levels remain significant, urging continued vigilance. As UV intensity tends to decrease moving into winter, January and December present moderate to high exposure levels, but caution is still recommended. Staying informed and proactive about sun safety will ensure a healthier outdoor experience all year round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phuntsholing | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 |
| Pemagatshel UVI | 6 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 |
| Tsirang UVI | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 |
| Punakha UVI | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 6 |
| Thimphu UVI | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 |