Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Maha Chana Chai, Thailand, where the tropical climate often leads to intense sun exposure. Knowing the daily UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and promote overall skin health, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors without the risk of damage. With mid-day UV Index values soaring to 15, it’s essential to stay informed about the potential risks associated with high UV exposure, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM when the sun's rays are most potent. Embrace the sun safely in this vibrant region by taking proactive measures to protect your skin!
At sunrise, the UV Index starts at a mild 2 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 4 by 08:00. As the sun rises higher, the intensity peaks sharply at 15 around 12:00, marking the day’s highest UV exposure. The heat continues until about 13:00, when it dips slightly to 13, before tapering off to 10 by 14:00. Later in the afternoon, the UV Index significantly decreases to 6 at 15:00 and sinks to 3 by 16:00. By 17:00, it drops further to 1, and the sun sets, leaving the UV Index at a safe 0 by 19:00. It’s crucial to take precautions during those peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00 when UV radiation is strongest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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, UV Index values exhibit significant seasonal changes, with the highest levels observed from February to October. This period is categorized as extreme, with the UV Index peaking at 15 in April and May. March through October present particularly high-risk months for sunburn, necessitating cautious outdoor exposure; during these months, just 10 minutes of direct sunlight can lead to skin damage. In contrast, January, November, and December show a drop to very high levels, with recommended burn times of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours to safeguard their skin throughout the year.
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 |
| Maha Chana Chai | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |