Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Qaram Qol, Afghanistan, where the arid BSk climate often leads to intense sun exposure. Recognizing UV levels not only aids in sunburn prevention but is vital for long-term skin health as well. With peak UV Index readings soaring to 11 between 11 AM and 1 PM, the risks associated with lengthy outdoor activities during these hours are significant. Staying informed about these levels empowers the community to take protective measures, ensuring safe enjoyment of the beautiful Afghan outdoors.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index climbs steadily, peaking at 11 between 11:00 and 12:00, signaling a strong need for sun protection during these hours. Starting from a mild 3 at 07:00, the intensity rapidly rises, reaching a noticeable 5 by 08:00 and soaring to 9 by 10:00. However, the sun's intensity begins to wane in the afternoon, dropping to 7 and then 5 from 13:00 to 15:00. By 16:00, the UV Index retreats to 3, and as evening sets in, it diminishes further to 1 by 17:00 and falls to 0 by 19:00. It's crucial to stay vigilant during those peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 levels show significant seasonal fluctuations that are crucial for both visitors and residents to understand. From January to February, the UV Index remains in the moderate range (4-5) with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, March and April see a sharp rise to a very high level (8-9), reducing burn time to just 15 minutes. The peak months for UV exposure are May to July, when the index reaches an extreme level (11), necessitating protective measures in just 10 minutes. In August and September, the levels slightly decline but remain very high (9-10), with a burn time of 15 minutes. As autumn sets in, October drops to a high index of 7, offering a burn time of 25 minutes, before returning to moderate levels in November and December. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions, especially during the high-risk months from March to August, by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qaram Qol | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| 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 |