Last updated: February 8, 2026
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Sa Thay, Vietnam, where the tropical climate can bring intense sun exposure. The UV levels here can soar, reaching a peak of 15 during midday, making it essential to monitor these values to prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. Awareness of the UV Index not only helps in avoiding painful burns but also supports long-term wellness by reducing the risk of skin damage. With its warm climate throughout the year, Sa Thay presents notable UV exposure risks, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the sun's rays are strongest. Stay informed and take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely!
The UV Index for the day presents a clear peak in intensity around midday. It starts at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually escalating to a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, the index surges to a significant 8, hitting a striking 11 at 10:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, it peaks at an impressive 15 at 12:00 PM. Fortunately, the intensity starts to decline after midday; it drops to 10 by 2:00 PM and further decreases to 6 by 3:00 PM. The UV Index continues its downward trend, falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and lingering there until it finally settles at 0 by 7:00 PM. It's crucial to take appropriate sun protection measures, especially during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 60+ minutes |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30–60 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 15–30 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 10–15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | <10 minutes |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | <10 minutes |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | <10 minutes |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 10–15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30–60 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 60+ minutes |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 60+ minutes |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 60+ minutes |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 60+ minutes |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain notably high, particularly from January to October, with values consistently in the extreme exposure category and a maximum index of 16 in April. The months of February and March are particularly notable, peaking at index levels of 13 and 15, respectively. High-risk months are clearly established as April, May, July, and August, where UV exposure is critically intense, posing a serious risk for sunburn within just 10 minutes of direct exposure. Residents and visitors should take strict precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. In December, while the UV Index lowers to 10 (very high) with a burn time of 15 minutes, it is still vital to remain vigilant. Prioritize skin protection to ensure safety throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hanoi UVI | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
| Haiphong UVI | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
| Da Nang UVI | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
| Ho Chi Minh City UVI | 10 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
| Bien Hoa UVI | 10 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
| Sa Thay | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |