UV Index in Vientiane, Laos

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Vientiane, Laos, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. With a tropical Aw climate, the city experiences intense sunlight, especially during midday hours, where the UV Index can soar to a dangerous high of 14. Understanding these UV levels is essential not just for preventing sunburns, but also for promoting long-term skin health and reducing the risk of skin cancer. As you bask in the warmth of Vientiane, being aware of the UV Index will help you enjoy the sun safely while minimizing potential risks.

Hourly UV Index in Vientiane

The UV Index today offers a clear picture of solar intensity as the day unfolds. Starting with a calm 1 at 7:00 AM, the sun's rays begin to strengthen, reaching 3 by 8:00 AM. The peak intensity hits at 12:00 PM, soaring to an impressive 14, indicating a strong need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, it gradually decreases, dropping to 4 by 4:00 PM and winding down to 1 by 6:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the UV Index retreats to 0, showcasing the significant daily variation in UV exposure. It's essential to stay alert during those peak hours, especially between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when UV radiation poses the greatest risk!

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	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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Vientiane

The UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, peaking from March to October, where the index frequently hits 14, indicating an extreme exposure category and a burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are February through October, where residents and visitors should exercise caution. During these months, it is essential to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses to shield against harmful UV rays. While January, November, and December have a comparatively lower risk with a UV Index of 9 and 8 (very high exposure category), it remains important to stay vigilant, as burn times can still be as brief as 15 minutes.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Vientiane, Laos

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Vientiane. 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 Vientiane, 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 Vientiane UV Index with Other Laos Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Vientiane 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.

Vientiane'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	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