Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Mae Lao, Thailand, where the tropical climate brings intense sunlight year-round. With UV levels peaking around midday, awareness of these fluctuations is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. The UV Index can soar to a staggering 14 during peak hours, highlighting the importance of protective measures against harmful rays. By staying informed about UV exposure risks, you can enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin and overall well-being in this beautiful region.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent. At 07:00, it starts at a gentle 1, but by 08:00, it noticeably climbs to 3, signaling a gradual increase in sun exposure. The peak arrives at 12:00, hitting an intense 14—a time when protective measures are crucial. From 11:00 to 13:00, the index remains dangerously high, with 12 and 13 respectively, urging outdoor enthusiasts to seek shade. Gradually, the intensity subsides, dropping to 11 at 14:00 and further decreasing to 8 by 15:00. The evening brings relief, as the UV Index falls to 2 by 17:00, and diminishes to 1 at 18:00, finally settling at 0 by 19:00. This hourly fluctuation highlights the importance of staying vigilant about UV exposure throughout the day!
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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
During the year, UV Index levels peak from March to October, with an extreme classification of 12-14 indicating significant risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. The high-risk months of April through October should be approached with caution, as the burn time drops to just 10 minutes in these periods. Visitors and residents are advised to protect themselves by wearing sunscreen, appropriate clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially from late morning to mid-afternoon when UV intensity is at its highest. Even in November and December, although the UV Index is lower, with values of 10 and 8 respectively, it remains important to exercise sun safety.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mae Lao | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 |
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 |
Chon Buri UVI | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |