Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan, where the high altitude and unique climate conditions result in significant sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at 15 around midday, awareness of these rankings is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. In this picturesque town, nestled within a Dwc climate zone, UV risks tend to be amplified, especially during sunny days. By staying informed about UV Index levels, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Wangdue Phodrang while taking necessary precautions to protect your skin from potential harm.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index makes a compelling ascent, starting from a modest 2 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 5, but the real surge occurs around 09:00, reaching 8 and heralding the sun's increasing intensity. The peak arrives at 12:00, where the index hits a sizzling 15, suggesting that sun protection is pivotal. A slight decline follows, with readings of 14 at 13:00 and 11 at 14:00, signaling a gradual retreat from the midday heat. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index drops significantly, hitting 8 at 15:00 and continuing downwards. By 18:00, it plummets to 1, and by 19:00, it rests comfortably at 0, marking the day’s end. It's a vivid reminder to stay vigilant and protect your skin during those peak hours!
| 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 | 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From March to October, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, with the highest value of 16 in July, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. January and February have very high levels of UV exposure, but burn times extend to 15 minutes. In contrast, November experiences a decline to a UV Index of 9, and December drops further to 6, with a safer burn time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from March through October, taking protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, and limiting direct sun exposure during peak hours to avoid skin damage.
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 |
| Wangdue Phodrang | 8 | 10 | 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 |