The UV index indicates the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and can help determine the risk of skin damage and sunburn.
In Phuket, the UV index typically ranges from moderate to high throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring during the hot season from February to May. Make no mistke, if you head outdoors in the peak heat of the day in Phuket without any sun protection, there’s a high chance you will get burnt.
We’re going to look at the average UV index rating in Phuket throughout the year, then precautionary measures you can take to protect your family from the sun’s harmful rays.
Average UV Index Rating in Phuket
Here is the average UV index rating by month in Phuket:
- January: 9 (very high)
- February: 10 (very high)
- March: 11 (extreme)
- April: 11 (extreme)
- May: 11 (extreme)
- June: 10 (very high)
- July: 10 (very high)
- August: 10 (very high)
- September: 9 (very high)
- October: 8 (high)
- November: 8 (high)
- December: 8 (high)
Source: TBC
Essential Sun Protection Tips For Phuket
Given the very high to extreme UV index in Phuket, it is essentail that you keep your skin protected from UV radiation no mater what time of year you visit. Here are some of our top pointers for helping the family deal with the UV rays:
- Use a high SPF sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and apply it liberally to all exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours or more frequently if they’ve been swimming or sweating.
- Dress in protective clothing: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers kids arms and legs. Look for clothing made from UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) fabric for added protection.
- Cover their heads: Encourage your kids to wear hats that shade their face, neck, and ears.
- Seek shade: When possible, seek out shade during the hottest parts of the day. If you’re at the beach, bring an umbrella or pop-up tent for some relief from the sun.
- Avoid midday sun: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm, so try to plan indoor activities or take a break during these hours.
- Use sunglasses: Encourage your kids to wear sunglasses with UV protection to protect their eyes from the sun.
- Hydrate: Make sure your kids drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the heat.
Remember, it’s important to be vigilant about sun protection in Phuket, where UV radiation can be very high, even during the wet season when there’s cloud cover.
So you don’t forget any of your important sun protection items, make sure you head over to our downloadable family packing list for Phuket.
And for more pointers on keeping kids safe in Phuket, make sure you head over to our Phuket safety tips guide.
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