Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Phuntsholing, Bhutan is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health under the sun's powerful rays. With UV levels peaking at a notable 14 around midday, residents and visitors alike need to remain vigilant to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The city’s Cwa climate brings vibrant sunshine, amplifying exposure risks throughout the day. Awareness of UV index readings not only empowers you to enjoy outdoor activities safely but also helps in making informed choices about sun protection. Stay informed and protect yourself under Phuntsholing's radiant skies!
The UV Index data reveals a dramatic rise in solar intensity throughout the morning, peaking at 14 during the midday hour of 11:00. Initially, from 07:00, the index starts at a manageable 4, but as the sun climbs higher, it reaches a striking 10 by 09:00 and escalates to its highest point of 13 at 10:00. Post-noon, the UV levels begin to gradually decline, dropping to 10 by 13:00, then plummeting to 4 by 15:00. As the day unfolds, the intensity wanes significantly, with levels falling to 1 by 17:00 and finally reaching 0 by 18:00, signaling a safe end to sun exposure. This data serves as a reminder to stay protected during peak hours, particularly between 10:00 and 14:00, when UV levels are at their highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 09:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | 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 |