December arrives with the commencement of the dry, cooler spell in
Pakse,
Laos. There is a scant 3mm (0.12") of rainfall, reflecting the typical weather pattern of the region’s dry season. Humidity also reaches its annual low, contributing to the dry and pleasant atmosphere. Despite fewer daylight hours, a compensatory rise in sunshine duration marks December. The UV index stays comparatively low, though sun protection measures are not to be dismissed.
Temperature
Pakse's entry into December measures an average high-temperature of a still hot 30.2°C (86.4°F), closely parallel to the preceding month. In the month of December, the average temperature dips to a comfortable 19.7°C (67.5°F) during the night.
Heat index
In December, the average heat index is appraised at a sweltering 35°C (95°F). Ensure additional precautions, heat exhaustion and heat cramps may be expected. Heatstroke could occur from sustained activity.
It is crucial to understand that heat index figures are for shade and gentle wind conditions. The heat index may scale up by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees with direct sun exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'apparent temperature', is found by incorporating humidity levels into the air temperature measurement. A person's impression of weather can be shaped by many aspects, among them metabolic variations, pregnancy, and levels of physical activity. When directly under the sun, the weather's impact can intensify, possibly boosting the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values hold great significance to children. Youngsters often neglect the necessity for rest and hydration. Thirst is a sign of advancing dehydration - thus the importance of maintaining hydration, specifically during long-lasting physical activities.
The natural method the human body uses to remove excess heat is by perspiring and letting sweat evaporate. Increased relative humidity slows down evaporation, thereby decreasing the rate of heat removal from the body, culminating in a sensation of overheating. Heat absorption that surpasses the body's shedding capability can lead to overheating and varying levels of dehydration.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in December is 67%.
Rainfall
Throughout December, in Pakse, 3mm (0.12") of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, 2075mm (81.69") of rain is accumulated.
Daylight
December has the shortest days of the year in Pakse, with an average of 11h and 18min of daylight.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:06 and sunset at 17:24. On the last day of December, sunrise is at 06:22 and sunset at 17:37 +07.
Sunshine
In Pakse, Laos, the average sunshine in December is 8.4h.
UV index
The months with the lowest UV index are
November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 9. A UV Index estimate of 8 to 10 represents a very high health vulnerability from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the ordinary person.
Note: The daily high UV index of 9 during December translates into the following recommendations:
Always use protective measures; unprotected skin might suffer damage in a short span. To the best of your ability, limit your exposure to the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak. Clothes that are both tight-knit and comfortably loose are prime choices for sun protection. Frequent reapplication of a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is vital every two hours or directly after a swim or an outdoor workout.