UV Index in Vientiane, Laos

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Vientiane, Laos, where the tropical Aw climate brings high sun exposure and UV levels. Awareness of UV ratings can empower individuals to take preventative measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring healthier lives under the sun. With peak UV indexes soaring to 14 around midday, it’s essential to recognize the times of day when the risk is greatest, especially as Vientiane's intense sunshine can lead to serious skin health concerns if precautions aren’t taken. Stay informed and protect your skin!

Hourly UV Index in Vientiane

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low at 1 by 07:00, but quickly escalates as the day progresses. By 09:00, it reaches 7, signaling the need for protection. 10:00 marks the peak at an intense 10, followed closely by a striking 13 at 11:00. The UV rays hit their highest point at 12:00 with a staggering 14, urging everyone to take caution. The intensity begins to taper off in the early afternoon, dropping to 10 by 14:00, and easing further to 7 at 15:00. As the day wanes, the UV Index dips to 3 by 16:00, and then back to a safe 1 at 17:00 and 18:00, wrapping up as the sun sets with a 0 at 19:00. It's a clear reminder that when outdoors, sun safety is paramount during the midday 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	1	low	45 min
08:00	3	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	13	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

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