April ushers in the hottest season of the year in
Luang Prabang. With temperatures soaring from 33.1°C (91.6°F) to 34.4°C (93.9°F), it marks the peak of
Laos' summer. The heat is mitigated with an extended daylight of 12.6 hours. Coupled with the highest UV index of the year, the month is marked by strong and direct sunlight. April also sees a significant shift in precipitation patterns - the rainfall increases drastically, almost quadrupling from
March, signifying the beginning of the wet season.
Temperature
April is the warmest month, with the temperature often reaching an average high of 34.4°C (93.9°F) and an average low of 21.4°C (70.5°F).
Heat index
During April, the heat index is appraised at a blazing hot 52°C (125.6°F).
Be on the lookout: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are anticipated. Continued exertion can result in heatstroke.
The standards for the heat index are set for locations in shade and under light breezes. Direct sunlight exposure may cause a 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees rise in the heat index.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'feels like', joins air temperature with relative humidity to produce a temperature perception for humans. One's perception of temperature can vary depending on physical activity and individual heat sensitivity, influenced by factors like wind, attire, and metabolic variations. Direct sun rays can make one feel hotter, potentially raising the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are quite important for babies and toddlers. Young ones often underestimate the need for rest and rehydration. Thirst appears late in dehydration - hence, it is important to keep hydrated, particularly during prolonged physical activities.
When faced with excessive heat, the human body begins to perspire, utilizing the cooling benefits of sweat evaporation. Under high air temperature and high humidity (high heat index) conditions, the body's ability to perspire is compromised, increasing the sensation of heat. Excessive heat gain, when not shed effectively by the body, can result in increasing body temperatures and related hazards.
Humidity
In Luang Prabang, the average relative humidity in April is 76%.
Rainfall
In Luang Prabang, in April, it is raining for 9 days, with typically 108mm (4.25") of accumulated precipitation. Throughout the year, there are 99 rainfall days, and 1443mm (56.81") of precipitation is accumulated.
Daylight
The average length of the day in April in Luang Prabang is 12h and 36min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:04 and sunset at 18:25. On the last day of April, in Luang Prabang, sunrise is at 05:42 and sunset at 18:34 +07.
Sunshine
In Luang Prabang, the average sunshine in April is 6.9h.
UV index
March through
September, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index value of 11, and more, symbolizes an extreme health hazard from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: In April, the maximum UV index of 12 transforms into these recommendations:
Take every vital safeguard, as unprotected skin and eyes may suffer burns rapidly. Seek shade and minimize exposure to direct Sun in a period between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV radiation is most intense; keep in mind that shade structures like parasols or canopies do not provide perfect sun protection. Always opt for UVA and UVB-resistant sunglasses on radiant days. Applying and reapplying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 after every two hours, outdoor workout, or swim is recommended.