Last updated: August 1, 2025
Being aware of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Pakxan, Laos, where the sun's rays can be intense throughout the year. Understanding UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health, especially given the region's Aw climate, characterized by hot weather and a pronounced dry season. With maximum UV indices reaching 14 around noon, it’s vital to take precautions to minimize exposure and protect your skin from harmful effects. Stay informed and stay safe under the sun!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting at a low 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it escalates to a moderate 3, signaling the need for some sun protection if you're headed outdoors. The real intensity kicks in as we approach mid-morning, peaking at a remarkable 14 by 12:00. This mid-day surge marks the highest risk for UV exposure, with values hovering around 13 from 11:00 to 13:00. As the afternoon rolls on, a gradual decline occurs, with the index dropping to 7 by 15:00, then further to 4 by 16:00. As evening sets in, the UV Index wanes to a safe 1 by 18:00, fading to 0 by 19:00. This hourly progression highlights the importance of vigilance during the sun's peak hours to stay protected while enjoying the great outdoors!
| 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 | 7 | 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 changes, highlighting high-risk months from February to October, where values reach extreme levels (11-14). In January, the UV Index starts at a very high level of 9, with a burn time of 15 minutes. However, by February, it rises to 11, prompting caution as burn time decreases to just 10 minutes. This extreme trend continues through March and July, peaking at 14 in several months. August and September maintain this extreme status, emphasizing the need for protective measures. In October, the index slightly lowers to 12 but remains in the extreme category. As November and December roll in, the index drops to 10 and 8 respectively, returning to the very high category with longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to prioritize sun safety, especially during the peak months, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade between 10 AM and 4 PM to minimize UV exposure risks.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luang Prabang UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 |
| Vientiane UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Pakxan | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Thakhek UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Savannakhet UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Pakse UVI | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |