Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Rawai, Thailand, where the tropical climate brings consistently high sun exposure. With UV levels often peaking at 13, it's essential to be aware of the risks associated with sun exposure, including sunburn and long-term skin damage. By monitoring UV Index values, you can effectively take precautions to protect your skin health, ensuring that your time under the sun is both enjoyable and safe. As Rawai experiences a tropical monsoon climate, the intensity of UV radiation can vary, making it imperative to stay informed so you can embrace the beautiful outdoors without compromising your wellbeing.
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!
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 |
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.
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 |
Rawai | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |