Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Kuran wa Munjan, Afghanistan, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With a high-altitude climate that contributes to increased UV exposure, awareness of UV levels can help residents and visitors alike enjoy the sun safely. Typically peaking around 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM with intense values—reaching as high as 17—the risks of overexposure are significant during these hours. Staying informed about the UV Index not only promotes better sun protection practices but also contributes to long-term skin health, making it essential for everyone in this beautiful region to keep a close eye on daily UV levels.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise and fall in intensity. At 7:00 AM, it begins modestly at 5, but as the sun ascends, the index escalates rapidly, peaking at an intense 15 by 10:00 AM. The peak of the day occurs at 11:00 AM, reaching a blistering 17, signaling the need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index starts to decline, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM, and continues to taper off to a mere 1 by 5:00 PM, with 0 by 7:00 PM. This data emphasizes the importance of taking precautions during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 09:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 10:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 17 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with high-risk months occurring from February to September, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels, particularly in March (14) and June (17). During these months, the recommended burn time decreases to just 10 minutes, highlighting the urgency for effective sun protection. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these periods, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially from midday sunlight. As the year transitions, we see a drop in UV intensity, with October beginning a decline, returning to higher exposures in November and December with safer burn times of 15 to 30 minutes. Staying informed and proactive can help minimize skin damage and enhance outdoor enjoyment throughout the seasons.
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 |
| Kuran wa Munjan | 6 | 8 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 17 | 15 | 16 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 |