UV Index in Lao Cai, Vietnam

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Lao Cai, Vietnam, where sun exposure can be intense, particularly during peak hours. With a Cfa climate that features a mix of sunshine and humidity, knowing the UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes skin health. As the day progresses, the UV Index can reach alarming levels, peaking at an extreme 14 around noon. Staying informed about these levels is essential to protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV radiation and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.

Hourly UV Index in Lao Cai

As the sun rises, the UV Index steadily climbs, starting at a modest 2 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it jumps to 4, signaling that it's time to apply some sunscreen. The intensity peaks at 14 around noon, making 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM crucial hours for sun protection. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually starts to decline: from 13 at 1:00 PM to 10 by 2:00 PM, before dipping down to 3 at 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV exposure diminishes significantly, reaching 1 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 0 by 7:00 PM. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine, but remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Lao Cai

Throughout the year, UV exposure fluctuates significantly, with highest UV Index readings occurring from March to October, categorizing these months as extreme risk (UV Index 12-14) and resulting in a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. High-risk months include April, May, June, July, August, and September, when sun protection is critical to avoid skin damage. Conversely, during January and February, while still marked as very high (UV Index 8-10), the burn time extends to 15 minutes. As we head into the cooler months, November registers a UV Index of 9 (very high), while December sees a safer 7 (high), with a longer burn time of 25 minutes. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours, especially in the summer months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Lao Cai, Vietnam

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Lao Cai. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Lao Cai, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Lao Cai UV Index with Other Vietnam Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Lao Cai compares to other major locations across Vietnam. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Lao Cai's solar exposure compared to other cities in Vietnam. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Lao Cai	8	10	12	13	14	14	14	14	13	12	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