Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Viengxay, Laos, where the tropical climate presents unique sun exposure challenges. With peak UV levels often reaching as high as 14 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. By comprehending how UV radiation varies throughout the day, you can take proactive measures—like wearing sunscreen and protective clothing—to safeguard your skin from potential damage. Viengxay, nestled in a Cwa climate zone, experiences consistent sunlight, making it imperative to keep an eye on the UV Index daily for a healthy outdoor experience.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a modest 2 at 07:00. By 08:00, it intensifies to 4, signaling a need for caution. The peak arrives impressively at 12:00, soaring to 14, which prompts strong recommendations for sun protection. Even at 11:00, the index is a high 13, suggesting the midday sun is at its most potent. After its zenith, the levels gradually recede, dropping to 10 at 14:00 and settling down to 7 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the index dwindles, reaching 3 by 16:00 and tapering off to 1 at both 17:00 and 18:00, before finally disappearing at 19:00. This day illustrates the critical need for vigilance against UV exposure, especially in the heart of the afternoon.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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 |
Seasonal changes in UV exposure indicate that February through October are the highest risk months, with UV Index values reaching extreme levels of 11 to 15, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Particularly, the pinnacle occurs in July with an index of 15. During these months, it's crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. January, November, and December show a declining trend, yet still present very high risk, with burn times of 15 minutes. As a reminder, it’s always wise to stay vigilant about sun protection, particularly during the summer months when the UV exposure is at its peak.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viengxay | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| 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 UVI | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |