Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Khandud, Afghanistan, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the UV levels in this mountainous area, particularly during peak sun hours, can help residents and visitors alike protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With a climate characteristic of the ET zone—marked by intense sun exposure—knowing when UV levels rise, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when readings can soar to 15, is essential for outdoor safety. Stay informed and safeguard your skin against the risks of prolonged sun exposure in this beautiful region!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, with a gentle 2 at 07:00. By 08:00, it spikes to a moderate 5, heralding a day of increasing sunlight. The intensity peaks at 12:00 with an impressive 15, marking the height of midday sun exposure. From 11:00 to 13:00, the index hovers around 14, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. As the afternoon progresses, readings start to decline, falling to 8 by 15:00 and down to 3 by 17:00 as the sun begins its descent. Evening hours witness a drop to 1, signaling a gentle retreat from UV exposure. Embrace the day wisely, as the UV journey showcases the sun's power throughout daylight!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, indicating varying risks of skin damage from the sun. January and December display a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for a safer outdoor experience with a burn time of 30 minutes. However, as early as February, the index rises to 7 (high), reducing burn time to 25 minutes. The sun's intensity peaks during the spring and summer months, particularly from March to August, where the UV Index reaches 14-17 and falls under the extreme category with a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. October signals a shift to very high at 10, demanding increased vigilance, while November returns to high at 7. It is crucial for visitors and residents to be aware of these seasonal variations and prioritize sun safety measures, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the high-risk months of March through September.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazar-e Sharif UVI | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Jalalabad UVI | 4 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Herat UVI | 5 | 6 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Kandahar UVI | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 |
| Kabul UVI | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Khandud | 5 | 7 | 14 | 15 | 17 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 10 | 7 | 5 |