Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mean Chey, Cambodia, where the tropical climate often exposes individuals to high levels of ultraviolet radiation. Awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, particularly when midday readings soar to a staggering 14. With the sun's intensity peaking around noon, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can greatly reduce the risk of skin damage. In this vibrant locale, where warm weather encourages outdoor activities, being informed about the daily UV Index is your best defense against the sun’s harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, indicating a cautious need for sun protection. The real intensity kicks in by 09:00, reaching 6, and peaks at a striking 14 at 12:00—the hour when the sun is at its zenith. With readings of 13 still prevalent from 11:00 to 13:00, it’s a vital time to stay protected! As afternoon settles in, the UV levels gradually taper off; they dip to 6 by 15:00 and descend further to 3 at 16:00. By evening, the risk diminishes significantly with a return to 1 at 17:00, rounding off the day as twilight approaches with a 0 reading by 19:00. Stay safe in the sun!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, peaking between February and September, when it reaches extreme levels of 14-15, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. January and December are slightly lower with a UV Index of 10, classified as very high, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. Notably, the months from February to November are categorized as high-risk, necessitating extra precautions for visitors and residents who plan to spend time outdoors. It is essential to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours to mitigate the risk of skin damage, especially during this high-risk period.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Battambang UVI | 10 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Siem Reap UVI | 10 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
Mean Chey | 10 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Phnom Penh UVI | 10 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Takeo UVI | 10 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Sihanoukville UVI | 11 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 |