Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Chiang Dao, Thailand, where the tropical climate brings ample sun and varying UV levels throughout the day. Awareness of UV levels is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining optimal skin health, especially during peak hours when the index soars to a maximum of 14. Given Chiang Dao's Aw climate classification, the risk of harmful exposure can be significant, particularly from late morning to early afternoon. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can protect yourself against the long-term effects of UV radiation while enjoying the beautiful outdoor scenery this remarkable region has to offer.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index climbs steadily, beginning at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 3, but the real surge comes between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM, where it hits a striking 14 at both 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. It's crucial to stay protected during these peak hours, especially at 11:00 AM when it peaks at 12. Post-lunchtime, the intensity starts to wane; the index drops to 11 at 2:00 PM, and continues its descent down to a mere 1 by 6:00 PM, before finally resting at 0 by 7:00 PM. Plan your day accordingly and take care to shield yourself from those intense rays during the peak hours!
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest values observed from March to October. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 14, categorized as extreme from May to September, where the recommended maximum sun exposure is only 10 minutes before burns can occur. January and February start with a very high rating of 9 and 10, respectively, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Notably, the months of March, April, and October transition back to extreme but still maintain 10 minutes of safe exposure. For residents and visitors, it is crucial to take protective measures, especially during the high-risk months from March to October. Recommendations include wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mueang Nonthaburi UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
Samut Prakan UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
Bangkok UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
Udon Thani UVI | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Chiang Dao | 9 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 |
Chon Buri UVI | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |