Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Surat Thani, Thailand, where the sun shines brightly throughout the year. With peak UV levels reaching a staggering 14 around noon, being aware of UV exposure risks can help safeguard your skin from harmful effects such as sunburn and long-term health issues. This tropical region, characterized by its humid and warm climate, presents unique challenges, making it essential to monitor daily UV levels. By staying informed, you can enjoy the beautiful Thai outdoors while prioritizing your skin safety.
At dawn, as the sun rises at 07:00, the UV Index is a modest 1, perfect for a leisurely morning stroll. By 08:00, it creeps up to 2, maintaining a gentle warmth. The real sunbathing begins around 09:00 with a notable jump to 5. However, it’s from 10:00 to 12:00 that the sun truly takes center stage, reaching its peak at a sizzling 14 at noon. As the afternoon unfolds, the intensity slightly wanes, dropping to 11 by 14:00 and winding down to 4 by 16:00. As the sun dips lower, the UV Index falls to 2 at 17:00 and finally retreats to 0 by 19:00, signaling the end of the day. Be sun-smart and enjoy the sunshine safely!
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | 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, the UV Index remains consistently high, with extreme exposure levels recorded every month. The months of February to April show the highest UV readings, peaking at 15, indicating significant risks for skin damage with an extremely short burn time of just 10 minutes. Additionally, January and December display slightly lower, yet still extreme levels at 11. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during all months, particularly from February to April, when UV levels are at their most intense. Sunscreen application, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours are essential to safeguard against harmful UV exposure.
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 |
Surat Thani | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 |