Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Shemgang, Bhutan is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With the UV levels peaking at a significant 15 around noon, awareness of these daily fluctuations can aid in sunburn prevention and mitigate long-term skin issues. Nestled in a temperate climate (Cwb), Shemgang experiences varying UV exposure risks, especially during sunny days. Being informed about the UV index not only helps you plan your outdoor activities wisely but also ensures you take necessary precautions to safeguard your skin from harmful rays.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking pattern of solar intensity. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mild 2, gradually climbing to a more moderate 4 by 08:00. However, as the sun ascends, the UV intensity peaks spectacularly at 15 during 12:00, signaling high levels of exposure. The afternoon sees a slight decrease, with UV levels dropping to 11 by 14:00 and then tapering off towards evening. By 17:00, the index falls back to 2, and by 19:00, it's a mere 0. It's clear that from late morning to early afternoon, protective measures such as sunscreen and shade are essential for safety under the sun.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 | 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, indicating varying risks for sun exposure. January starts with a UV index of 6, categorized as high, with a burn time of 25 minutes. As we transition into February and March, the UV index rises to 9 and 10 respectively, both classified as very high, reducing safe exposure to 15 minutes. The high-risk months peak from April to October, where the UV index reaches 13 to 15 and falls into the extreme category, with minimal burn times of just 10 minutes. Notably, July records the highest index at 15. As we move towards late fall and winter, November decreases to 8, remaining very high, then back to 6 in December. Visitors and residents are advised to take necessary precautions during these peak months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and to minimize sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
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 |
| Shemgang | 6 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 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 |