Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Dak Cheung, Laos, where the tropical climate brings intense sunshine and frequent UV exposure. Knowing how to monitor UV levels isn't just about enjoying the outdoors safely; it's essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health over time. With peak UV Index values soaring as high as 15 during midday hours, Dak Cheung's climate poses significant risks for skin damage. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take the necessary precautions to enjoy the sun while safeguarding your health.
The UV Index today showcases a dynamic intensity throughout the hours. Starting at a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM, it begins to rise steadily, hitting 4 by 8:00 AM. The 9:00 AM mark brings a significant leap to 8, but the real peak emerges at 10:00 AM with an impressive 12. This intensity continues to climb, reaching a maximum of 15 at both 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the index tapers off, descending to 13 at 1:00 PM, and dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM. The sun's power diminishes further, falling to 6 by 3:00 PM, and gently winding down to 3 at 4:00 PM. Finally, the day concludes with lower levels of 1 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM and fades to 0 by 7:00 PM. This clear pattern encourages outdoor enthusiasts to protect themselves during the midday peak while enjoying more comfortable UV levels later in the day.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 15 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index values remain consistently high, indicating extreme exposure levels from January through April, with peaks of 15 in March, April, May, July, and August. Notably, the months of February and March also feature elevated UV levels, reaching 13 and 15, respectively. Summer months—especially July and August—prove to be high-risk periods for UV exposure, maintaining a level of 15 and emphasizing the need for caution. Even during the fall months, UV levels remain significant, with October and September showcasing 13 and 14 respectively. Residents and visitors should take precautions during these months: wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and limit sun exposure, particularly during peak hours, to avoid harmful effects from UV rays.
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 |
| Dak Cheung | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |