January in
Pakse,
Laos, presents a relatively cool climate, compared to the following months. The dropping temperatures make evenings and nights pleasant providing relief from the typical tropical weather. There is a minimum occurrence of rainfall with only 2mm (0.08") recorded, making it one of the driest months. The daylight hours and sunshine duration are on an increasing trend, paving the way for brighter months ahead. Following January's weather patterns, sun-protection strategies are paramount due to moderate UV index levels.
Temperature
In January, the average high-temperature registers at a still hot 31°C (87.8°F), nearly identical to
December's 30.2°C (86.4°F). January presents a pronounced divergence from daily peak temperatures, with the average low-temperature of 16.3°C (61.3°F).
Heat index
January's mean heat index is appraised at a torrid 35°C (95°F). Undertake special precautions, the probability of heat exhaustion and heat cramps is high. Prolonged activity may provoke heatstroke.
It is essential to grasp that the heat index's numbers are for shade and light wind settings. Facing direct sunlight may hike up the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'real feel', blends air temperature and moisture content to represent the felt temperature to humans. Elements of metabolic variation, physical activity, and clothing contribute to the effect of temperature on an individual. Take note that direct exposure to the sun can increase the felt temperature, possibly adding 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees to the heat index. Heat index values are highly critical to babies and toddlers. Kids are usually more vulnerable than adults, given their lesser sweating ability. Along with their larger skin surface relative to their small stature and the excess heat due to their activity, their risk is amplified.
The body's self-cooling mechanism is rooted in perspiration, where evaporating sweat cools down excessive warmth. An increase in relative humidity hinders the body's normal cooling function by reducing evaporation, thereby decreasing the rate of body cooling and enhancing the sense of warmth. Overheating can ensue when the body accumulates more heat than it can release, and dehydration severity may vary.
Humidity
In January, the average relative humidity in Pakse is 62%.
Rainfall
January is the month with the least rainfall, with 2mm (0.08") of accumulated precipitation.
Daylight
The average length of the day in January is 11h and 21min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:22 and sunset at 17:37. On the last day of January, sunrise is at 06:25 and sunset at 17:54 +07.
Sunshine
In January, the average sunshine is 9h.
UV index
In Pakse, the average daily maximum UV index in January is 10. A UV Index estimate of 8 to 10 represents a very high health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for ordinary individuals.
Note: The daily maximum UV index of 10 in January interprets into the following advice:
Always be cautious. Skin and eyes can be affected swiftly without protection. Stay in the shade and avoid direct Sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a period when UV radiation is particularly strong, noting that parasols or canopies may not offer total sun protection. Arm yourself against UV rays' harm with protective apparel and UV-filtering shades. Even on overcast days, a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of no less than 30 should be generously applied and reapplied, particularly after swimming or outdoor activities.