UV Index in Samtse, Bhutan

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Samtse, Bhutan is vital for safeguarding your skin health while enjoying the region's beautiful sunny days. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 15 around noon, being aware of these levels is crucial for sunburn prevention and reducing long-term skin damage. Samtse's climate, categorized as Cwa (humid subtropical), brings both warmth and an elevated risk of UV exposure, particularly during the midday hours. Staying informed about the UV Index can empower you to take protective measures, ensuring that you enjoy the sunshine without compromising your health.

Hourly UV Index in Samtse

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, reaching a modest 2 by 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it jumps to a more noticeable 7, but it's truly from 10:00 AM onwards that the sun's intensity peaks. At 11:00 AM, the index soars to 14, reaching a staggering 15 at noon—the year's highest point. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually descends, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM, then further to 4 at 4:00 PM, and winding down to a serene 1 by 6:00 PM. Finally, as the sun sets and the day draws to a close, the UV Index dips to 0 at 7:00 PM, marking the end of this sunlit journey. Remember to stay protected during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Samtse

As the year progresses, seasonal UV changes reveal significant variations in exposure levels, particularly peaking from March to October. During this period, the UV Index consistently hovers in the very high to extreme categories, marking April through October as high-risk months with a burn time as low as 10 minutes. February to October sees UV indices reaching dangerously high levels, especially in June and July, when the index peaks at 15. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. In contrast, January and December offer slightly reduced risks with a high UV Index of 6, allowing for more time in the sun—approximately 25 minutes—with minimal protection.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Samtse, Bhutan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Samtse. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Samtse, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Samtse UV Index with Other Bhutan Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Samtse compares to other major locations across Bhutan. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Samtse's solar exposure compared to other cities in Bhutan. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Samtse	6	8	10	12	13	14	15	14	13	11	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