UV Index in Phuket, Thailand

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Phuket, Thailand, understanding the UV Index is crucial for both residents and visitors, especially given the island's tropical climate. During peak hours, the UV levels can soar, reaching dangerous heights — with a maximum of 13 at midday. Awareness of these levels is essential not only for sunburn prevention but also for maintaining long-term skin health. As you bask in the sun, it’s important to recognize the risks associated with high UV exposure, and plan your outdoor activities accordingly to keep your skin safe and healthy. Stay informed and enjoy all that beautiful Phuket has to offer while protecting yourself from harmful UV rays!

Hourly UV Index in Phuket

As the sun rises, the UV Index starts modestly at 1 at 07:00, indicating minimal risk. By 09:00, it climbs to a moderate 5, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The peak emerges around 12:00, hitting a noticeably high 13, and remains intense until 14:00 when it slightly dips to 11. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases; by 15:00, it falls to 7, and as evening approaches, it continues its decline to 2 at 17:00. Finally, the UV Index settles at 1 by 18:00, ultimately dipping to a safe 0 by 19:00. It's a day where midday sun protection is paramount!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	7	high	25 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Phuket

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, reaching extreme levels from January to November, with values peaking at 15 in March and April. The risk of skin damage is significant, as the burn time is consistently limited to just 10 minutes. The months of February, March, April, May, August, September, and October are particularly high-risk, maintaining UV Index scores of 14 or higher. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible. Staying vigilant about UV exposure is essential to protect skin health year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Phuket, Thailand

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Phuket. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Phuket, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Phuket UV Index with Other Thailand Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Phuket compares to other major locations across Thailand. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Phuket's solar exposure compared to other cities in Thailand. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Phuket	12	14	15	15	14	13	13	14	14	14	12	11