Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Tha Chang, Thailand, where the sun shines brightly in a tropical climate. With UV levels often peaking between 11 AM and 1 PM, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. High UV exposure can lead to adverse effects, making it vital to take protective measures during peak hours. Whether you're lounging by the river or exploring local sights, keeping an eye on the UV Index will empower you to enjoy the warm sun safely while minimizing the risks associated with overexposure.
At 07:00, the UV Index begins at a safe 1, indicating low risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the sun rises higher, 08:00 sees a moderate increase to 3. However, by 09:00, the intensity escalates to 6, marking the start of increased caution. The peak UV Index occurs between 11:00 and 12:00, hitting a striking 13, prompting a strong recommendation for sun protection. Following this interval, a gradual decline begins: 13:00 and 14:00 remain elevated at 13 and 10, respectively, before descending quickly to 7 by 15:00. As the afternoon fades, the UV Index drops to 3 at 16:00 and finally winds down to 1 by 17:00, with the evening ushering in a safe 0 by 19:00. It's crucial to stay cautious during the peak hours to enjoy the sunshine safely!
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, peaking during the warmer months. From January to December, the UV Index typically ranges from 9 to 14, with the highest risk months being from March to October, when the index reaches an extreme level of 12 to 14. Specifically, the months of April, July, and August represent the peak of UV exposure, necessitating vigilant sun protection with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. Conversely, November and December offer somewhat lower risk levels, with a UV Index of 10 and 9, respectively, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high UV index months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen diligently, and seeking shade whenever possible to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term 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 |
| Tha Chang | 10 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| 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 |