Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Umphang, Thailand, where the combination of the region's Aw climate and high-altitude terrain can result in significant sun exposure. With UV levels peaking at a striking 15 around noon, being aware of these fluctuations is key to preventing sunburn and maintaining skin health. As the sun's rays become more intense throughout the morning and early afternoon, knowledge of the UV Index can help you plan your outdoor activities wisely, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience under the Thai sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index experiences a steady climb throughout the morning. At 07:00, it starts off with a mild 1, but by 09:00, it ramps up to a 6, indicating more intense exposure. The heat peaks sharply at 12:00, reaching a sizzling 15, just before dipping to 14 at 13:00. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, hitting 12 at 14:00, then falling to 8 by 15:00. As evening approaches, the sun's strength wanes, leaving the UV Index at a safe 1 by 18:00 and finally dropping to 0 by 19:00. It’s a day where sun safety is paramount, especially during the midday hours!
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 12 | 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, UV Index levels exhibit notable fluctuations, with the highest readings occurring during the spring and summer months. From February to October, the UV Index remains in the extreme category, peaking at 15 in both May and July. March through October are identified as high-risk months, during which the burn time is as short as 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for effective sun protection strategies. Visitors and residents should be especially vigilant during these months; it’s advisable to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly to mitigate the risk of UV-related skin damage. As the year progresses into November and December, UV levels decrease to very high and high categories, with burn times extending to 15 minutes, allowing for slightly reduced caution but still necessitating sun safety measures.
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 |
Umphang | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 |