UV Index in Qala i Naw, Afghanistan

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Qala i Naw, Afghanistan is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. As this region experiences a Csa climate, the sun's intensity can vary significantly throughout the day, with UV levels peaking around midday. Learning about these UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in long-term skin health. During the sunniest hours, especially between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index can reach as high as 12, signaling a strong risk for unprotected skin. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the outdoors safely!

Hourly UV Index in Qala i Naw

At dawn, the UV Index starts at a modest 3 by 7:00 AM, climbing steadily throughout the morning. By 9:00 AM, it reaches 7, signaling a need for sun protection, which becomes crucial as it peaks at 12 during the sunny hours of 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. After this high point, the intensity gradually decreases: 11 at 1:00 PM, then 8, 6, and dwindling down to 3 by 4:00 PM. As the evening approaches, the index drops further to a gentle 1 by 6:00 PM, and eventually settles at 0 by 7:00 PM, making it a safe time to enjoy the outdoors without the risk of strong UV exposure. Be sure to maximize your sun safety during the midday hours when the UV intensity is at its highest!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:003moderate30 min
08:005moderate30 min
09:007high25 min
10:0010very high15 min
11:0012extreme10 min
12:0012extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:008very high15 min
15:006high25 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:002low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Qala i Naw

Throughout the year, seasonal changes in UV exposure significantly impact the risk of sunburn for residents and visitors. The UV Index peaks between March and August, with May, June, and July classified as high-risk months, each featuring an extreme exposure category (Index of 12) and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during these months, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, especially when the UV Index is 9 or above in March and April. As fall approaches, the UV Index gradually lowers to 10 in September and 7 in October, marking a decline in risk, but it remains important to stay aware until the onset of winter when lower UV levels return in November and December.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Qala i Naw, Afghanistan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Qala i Naw. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec569111212121110743
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Qala i Naw, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Qala i Naw UV Index with Other Afghanistan Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Qala i Naw compares to other major locations across Afghanistan. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Qala i Naw's solar exposure compared to other cities in Afghanistan. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mazar-e Sharif UVI3589111111109743
Jalalabad UVI459101211121110753
Qala i Naw569101212121110743
Herat UVI5610111312121110854
Kandahar UVI5710111313131211965
Kabul UVI6710121313131211864