Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Sa Pa, Vietnam, where the delightful climate can often disguise the risks of sun exposure. With UV levels peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM at a startling 14, awareness of these readings is essential to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. The region's temperate Cfa climate offers beautiful vistas but also presents notable UV exposure risks, particularly during the warmer months. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Sa Pa!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its climb, peaking dramatically at 14 around noon. Starting from a mild 2 at 07:00, the intensity escalates quickly, reaching a tipping point of 11 by 10:00 and hitting its zenith at 12:00. During the midday hours, when the UV exposure is most potent, it's essential to take precautions. As afternoon approaches, the index gradually subsides—dropping to 7 at 15:00 and further to 2 by 17:00. After sunset, UV levels wane to 0, signaling a safe return for outdoor activities as the sun sinks below the horizon. Make sure to protect your skin and enjoy the sunny day safely!
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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index reflects significant seasonal fluctuations, with high-risk months identified from March to October, during which the index remains consistently between 13 and 15, categorizing these periods as extreme exposure. Particularly, May and July are the peak months for UV exposure, necessitating vigilant sun safety precautions with a burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, January and November present very high conditions with slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to prioritize sun protection measures such as wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV radiation is at its highest. As winter approaches, UV levels decrease, but caution is still advisable in early spring and late fall.
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 |
Sa Pa | 8 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 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 |