Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Ban Thateng, Laos, where the tropical climate often leads to high UV exposure, particularly during midday hours. As UV levels can reach a maximum of 15, knowing the risks is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. By being aware of UV fluctuations throughout the day, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself, guarding against harmful effects that arise from the intense sunlight typical of this region. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply soaking up the sun, staying informed about the UV Index is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the Laotian sun.
At sunrise, the UV Index starts at a mild 2 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 4 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the intensity peaks sharply at 15 around 12:00, marking the day’s highest UV exposure. The heat continues until about 13:00, when it dips slightly to 13, before tapering off to 10 by 14:00. Later in the afternoon, the UV Index significantly decreases to 6 at 15:00 and sinks to 3 by 16:00. By 17:00, it drops further to 1, and the sun sets, leaving the UV Index at a safe 0 by 19:00. It’s crucial to take precautions during those peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00 when UV radiation is strongest.
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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring between February and October. During this period, the UV Index consistently reaches extreme levels of 13 to 15, requiring caution, especially for outdoor activities. The burn time during these months is notably short, often just 10 minutes, emphasizing the importance of protective measures. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, as well as seek shade during peak sun hours. In contrast, January, November, and December have very high UV levels but with longer burn times of 15 minutes, still warranting caution. Staying informed about these seasonal changes can help ensure safety and enjoyment in the sun.
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 |
Pakse UVI | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Ban Thateng | 10 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |