Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Vangviang, Laos, understanding the UV Index is crucial for both locals and visitors alike, as it plays a significant role in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. With the region's tropical climate, daily UV exposure can reach critical levels, especially around midday when the index peaks at a scorching 14. Being informed about UV levels helps you make better choices about sun safety and enjoy your time outdoors without unnecessary risks. Whether you're exploring Vangviang's stunning landscapes or engaging in outdoor activities, keeping an eye on the UV Index can safeguard your health and enhance your experience in this beautiful locale.
The UV Index fluctuated throughout the day, peaking dramatically in the early afternoon. Starting from a modest 1 at 07:00, it climbed steadily, hitting a moderate 3 by 08:00. By 09:00, the index reached 6, signaling the sun's growing intensity. The real surge began at 10:00, where it skyrocketed to 10 and continued to rise, peaking at a striking 14 during 12:00. As the afternoon unfolded, the index began to dip, settling at 10 by 14:00 and further descending to 7 by 15:00. The day's sunlight waned with the index dropping to 4 at 16:00, and finally tapering off to 1 by 18:00, before turning to zero as night fell at 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly between 10:00 and 14:00 when UV exposure is at its highest.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 variation, reaching its peak during the summer months of July and August with an extreme rating of 15. High-risk months also include March through June, where the index consistently measures 14, necessitating caution for sun exposure with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Residents and visitors should take urgent precautions during these months: wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade during peak hours. In contrast, January and December see a drop to a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, where burn time extends to 15 minutes. Being aware of these fluctuations can significantly help in protecting skin health throughout the year.
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 |
| 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 |
| Vangviang | 9 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
| Pakse UVI | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |