Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Sam Ngam, Thailand is crucial for ensuring skin health and sunburn prevention, especially in this tropical climate known for its high levels of sun exposure. As UV levels can soar to a peak of 14 during midday, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for outdoor enthusiasts and residents alike. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can take necessary precautions to protect your skin from harmful rays, making your time under the Thai sun both enjoyable and safe. Don't underestimate the power of the sun in Sam Ngam—knowing when to seek shade can help you enjoy the vibrant outdoors while safeguarding your health.
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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, peaking in the summer months. January starts with a very high UV Index of 9, but by February it escalates to an extreme level of 11. From March through October, the UV Index remains critically high, reaching a maximum of 14 in July, August, and September, while maintaining an extreme exposure category throughout this period. As the year progresses, October sees a slight decline to 13, before dropping again in November to 10 and December to 8, both classified as very high. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, particularly during the high-risk months from February through October, where burn times are as short as 10 minutes. To protect your skin, limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly.
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 |
Sam Ngam | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 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 |