Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Lhuentse, Bhutan, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. Understanding UV levels can help you take preventive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, particularly in this region's unique Cwb climate, where UV radiation peaks can reach dangerously high levels around noon. With readings soaring to 16 during the brightest hours, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about UV intensity to protect their skin and enjoy the stunning outdoor beauty safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a manageable level of 2 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 5, marking the beginning of a more intense solar impact. The peak arrives at 12:00, where the index reaches a striking 16, indicating a need for sun protection. The intensity begins to wane after 13:00, dropping to 14, then gracefully descending through 11 at 14:00, before tapering off to 7 by 15:00. As the day winds down, the UV Index falls sharply to 4 at 16:00, and continues to diminish, hovering at 2 by 17:00. The evening brings a steady decline to 1 by 18:00 and finally, the index rests at 0 by 19:00, signaling the end of a day filled with potent sun exposure. It's a crucial reminder to stay protected during peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00 when the sun is strongest.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
10:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months typically falling between February and October. The peak UV Index occurs in July, reaching 16, categorized as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Other months like March, April, May, June, August, and September also display extreme levels (ranging from 12 to 15) and require vigilant sun protection. November and December pose lower risk with very high (9) and high (6) indices, respectively, allowing for longer exposure times. Visitors and residents should equip themselves with sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours to prevent skin damage, particularly during the critical summer months.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Phuntsholing UVI | 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 |
Lhuentse | 7 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 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 |