Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Phanat Nikhom, Thailand, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is not just about avoiding sunburn; it plays a significant role in long-term skin health and reducing the risk of skin cancer. With a tropical climate characterized by intense sun exposure, especially during peak hours where the UV Index can reach a staggering 13, residents and visitors must take proactive measures to stay safe. Whether it's seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, or applying sunscreen, knowing the UV index can help you enjoy the sunny days while minimizing your risk.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it jumps to 3, a signal to enjoy some morning sun responsibly. The real intensity kicks in at 9:00 AM, peaking at 12:00 PM with a blistering 13—a reminder to seek shade and slather on that sunscreen! After the midday heat, the index begins to decline, dipping to 10 at 2:00 PM, and down to 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, the day winds down at 6:00 PM with a UV index of 1, wrapping up the daylight hours with minimal UV exposure. Stay sun-safe and keep that SPF handy during those 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | 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 levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest risk months occurring from February to August, during which the UV Index often reaches extreme levels of 12 to 14. In these months, the burn time is notably short, at just 10 minutes, necessitating diligent sun protection measures. Conversely, January and December have slightly lower UV indices (10 and 9, respectively) and, while categorized as very high, they still require caution with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses during high UV periods, particularly between late winter and summer, to minimize skin damage and health risks.
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 |
Phanat Nikhom | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 |
Chon Buri UVI | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |