UV Index in Thakhek, Laos

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Thakhek, Laos, as it plays a vital role in guiding sun safety and skin health. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 14 around midday, awareness of these levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Thakhek's tropical Aw climate features a significant amount of sunshine year-round, producing heightened risks for UV exposure. Knowing when to seek shade or wear protective clothing can be essential in enjoying the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin.

Hourly UV Index in Thakhek

Today’s UV Index presents a clear reminder of the sun’s intensity as we traverse through the afternoon. Starting at 07:00, the index begins modestly at 2, but it rapidly climbs to 4 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the UV Index peaks at an intense 14 during the 11:00 and 12:00 hours, indicating a strong need for protection against harmful rays. Following this zenith, the index gradually declines, falling to 6 by 15:00 and dropping further to 1 by 17:00. By sunset, at 19:00, the UV Index wanes to 0, marking a safe zone as the day fades. Remember to stay vigilant and protect your skin during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Thakhek

During the year, UV exposure in the region varies significantly, with high-risk months spanning from February to October, where UV indices reach extreme levels of 11 to 15. Notably, April and July peak with a UV Index of 15, accompanied by a dangerous burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, January, November, and December present lower UV indices (9 to 10), categorized as very high, with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. To ensure safety, it is crucial for visitors and residents to adopt protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours from late winter through early fall, particularly in the most intense months of March through October.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Thakhek, Laos

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Thakhek. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Thakhek, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Thakhek UV Index with Other Laos Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Thakhek compares to other major locations across Laos. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Thakhek's solar exposure compared to other cities in Laos. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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	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