UV Index in Samtse, Bhutan

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Samtse, Bhutan, is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. As a region characterized by its distinct Cwa climate, Samtse experiences varying levels of UV radiation throughout the day, peaking at an index of 13 around midday. This heightened UV exposure can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage if precautions are not taken. Being aware of the UV levels allows residents and visitors to enjoy the sun safely while minimizing risks; therefore, it's crucial to stay informed and protective against harmful rays when venturing outdoors.

Hourly UV Index in Samtse

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a notable peak in solar intensity. Starting gently at 2 at 7:00 AM, it quickly rises as the sun climbs higher. By 10:00 AM, the index hits 10, indicating strong UV exposure, which reaches its maximum of 13 at 12:00 PM—the height of midday sun. A gradual decline follows, bringing the index down to 6 by 3:00 PM, before it dips to a low of 1 by 6:00 PM and finally settles at 0 by 7:00 PM. These fluctuations highlight the importance of sun protection during midday hours when UV levels are at their highest.

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	10	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	3	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