Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Pakse, Laos, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and reducing long-term skin damage, especially in a climate characterized by strong sunlight and high UV exposure. With midday UV Index values soaring to 15, the risk of harm to unprotected skin is significant. Given Pakse’s tropical climate, it's essential to remain informed about daily UV forecasts to take appropriate precautions and enjoy the sun safely.
As the sun rises on a new day, the UV Index begins at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to reach its peak of 15 by 12:00 PM. The hours between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM showcase the sun's intensity, highlighted by a significant spike to 11 at 10:00 AM and 14 at 11:00 AM. However, by the afternoon, the radiation starts to wane, dropping to 6 at 3:00 PM, and then tapering off significantly as evening approaches. By 6:00 PM, the UV Index returns to a safe level of 1, and by 7:00 PM, it settles at 0, signaling the end of peak solar radiation for the day. Remember, during those peak hours, it’s essential to protect your skin!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 15 | 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 seasonal UV changes indicate a trend of very high to extreme UV levels primarily from January through October, with February to July showing the highest indices. Specifically, March and April peak at a UV Index of 15, categorizing the exposure as extreme, warranting a burn time of just 10 minutes. High-risk months are clearly defined from February to October, where protective measures are crucial; these months have a consistent UV Index ranging from 12 to 15. As such, it is advisable for both visitors and residents to exercise caution during outdoor activities by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, while seeking shade whenever possible, especially during peak hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. even when the burn time is notably short.
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 |
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 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |