Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Chiang Khan, Thailand, where the sun's intensity can pose significant health risks. With its tropical climate, this picturesque town experiences high UV levels that peak around midday—reaching a staggering 14 by noon. Awareness of these UV levels is crucial for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health, especially during those intense hours when exposure can cause damage in just minutes. Whether you're exploring the scenic Mekong River or enjoying local markets, being informed about UV radiation can help you make safer choices and protect your skin from harmful effects. Stay vigilant and enjoy all that Chiang Khan has to offer while prioritizing your well-being!
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting the day at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it takes a leap to 3, signaling the onset of more intense rays. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 PM with a blistering 14, making it crucial to seek shade and apply sunscreen. This high UV level persists until 1:00 PM, when it slightly drops to 13 before tapering off in the afternoon. By 3:00 PM, the index descends to 7, showing that while the sun remains strong, it’s losing its bite. As evening approaches, the UV Index dwindles to a comfortable 1 by 5:00 PM and finally drops to 0 by 7:00 PM, marking the end of a sun-soaked day.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do the UV levels, significantly impacting both visitors and residents. From January to March, the UV Index starts high at 9 and peaks at 13 in March and April, classified as extreme, with a burn time of only 10 minutes during these months. The UV exposure remains extraordinarily high throughout the summer months of May to September, consistently at 14, and continues to require caution with a burn time of just 10 minutes. October sees a decline to 12, but remains in the extreme range. November and December drop to levels of 10 and 8, classified as very high, but still demand attention, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should exercise caution, particularly during the high-risk months of February through September, by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize UV exposure and prevent 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 Khan | 9 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
| Chon Buri UVI | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |