Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Xam Nua, Laos, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining long-term health. Understanding UV levels helps residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin damage. With a climate categorized as Cwa, Xam Nua experiences significant fluctuations in UV radiation throughout the day, peaking in the early afternoon when the UV Index can soar to a staggering 15. Being informed about these levels is crucial, especially for enjoying outdoor activities safely under the Laotian sun.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise and fall in intensity. Starting at 07:00, the index is a modest 2, but by 09:00, it jumps to 7, indicating a sharp increase in sun exposure. The peak intensity occurs at 12:00, where the UV Index reaches a scorching 15, signaling a critical need for sun protection. As the afternoon rolls in, the numbers begin to decline, dipping to 11 by 14:00 and further down to 4 at 16:00. Finally, the index wanes into the evening, dropping to 1 at 18:00 and settling at 0 by 19:00, effectively marking the end of a sun-soaked day. Pay attention to these fluctuations to protect your skin from harmful UV rays!
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 | 11 | 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 | 7 | high | 25 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 exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking from March to September, where it reaches extreme levels, particularly in May through September with an index consistently at 15. The highest risk months are February (11), March (13), April (13), and May (15), signaling an urgent need for protective measures. During these periods, residents and visitors should minimize sun exposure, especially during peak hours, as the burn time is alarmingly low—only 10 minutes in these extreme months. When outside, it is crucial to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats, and seek shade whenever possible, especially during the high-risk summer months of June, July, and August. In contrast, January, November, and December show a very high exposure category, yet with a longer burn time of 15 minutes, indicating a moderate threat to skin health, though precautions should still be observed.
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 |
Xam Nua | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 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 |