Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Dasht-e Qal'ah, Afghanistan, where the unique BSk climate can lead to significant UV exposure, especially during peak hours. As UV levels soar to a maximum of 12 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, being aware of these levels can help prevent sunburn and protect skin health. By keeping a close eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely and maintain your well-being in this sun-soaked region, where outdoor activities are abundant and the risks of excessive UV exposure are very real. Stay informed to safeguard yourself against the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays!
This hour-by-hour UV Index data reveals a dynamic sun exposure pattern throughout the day. Starting at a modest 2 at 07:00, the index quickly ramps up to 5 by 08:00, signaling a gradual increase in UV intensity. The peak occurs between 11:00 and 12:00, where it reaches a striking 12, indicating a significant risk for unprotected skin. As the afternoon progresses, UV levels gradually decline from 11 at 13:00 to 6 at 15:00, before dipping to 3 at 16:00. By evening, the UV Index falls dramatically to 1 by 17:00 and drops to 0 after 19:00, making this data crucial for planning safe outdoor activities and protecting yourself during the sun's strongest hours.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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, seasonal changes in UV levels highlight varying risks associated with sun exposure. The high-risk months for UV radiation are from March to September, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13, resulting in very short burn times of just 10 minutes. This emphasizes the necessity for residents and visitors to take protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing, especially during peak sunlight hours. As the year progresses into October, the UV Index drops to 8 (very high) with a burn time of 15 minutes, still indicating significant risk. In contrast, November and December see more moderate exposure levels with indices of 5 and 4 and burn times of 30 minutes, where precautions can be relaxed but still remain prudent. Overall, staying informed about UV changes and adapting sun safety practices accordingly is essential for everyone.
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 |
| Dasht-e Qal'ah | 5 | 6 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 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 |