Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Cha-am, Thailand, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and supports long-term skin health, particularly in a tropical climate where the sun's intensity can reach harmful peaks. Typically, UV exposure risks are heightened between 10 AM and 2 PM, with indices soaring to a staggering 14 during midday. By staying informed about the UV Index in Cha-am, residents and visitors alike can better enjoy the sunny beaches while prioritizing their well-being.
The UV Index begins its ascent at 7:00 AM, starting modestly at 1, but by 9:00 AM, it escalates to a more noticeable 6. The real surge occurs around 11:00 AM, peaking at an intense 12 and reaching its highest point of 14 by noon and 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the intensity starts to wane, dipping to 11 at 2:00 PM, and then gradually decreasing to 8 by 3:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV levels drop swiftly, dropping to 4 at 4:00 PM, and ultimately retreating to a mere 1 by 6:00 PM and 0 by 7:00 PM. Throughout the day, it's clear to stay protected during those peak hours when the UV exposure could be most harmful.
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 | 4 | 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 reveal extreme exposure, particularly from January to October, reaching peaks of 14 in March, April, May, July, August, and September, with a consistent burn time of just 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from January to October, necessitating caution, as prolonged exposure within these months can result in severe sunburn. November and December see a slight decline in UV intensity to 10 and 9, respectively, categorized as very high, allowing for a marginally longer safe exposure time of 15 minutes. It's advised that both visitors and residents utilize sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours, particularly in the extreme UV months, to safeguard against harmful effects.
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 |
Chon Buri UVI | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 9 |
Cha-am | 11 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |