Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Chahar Qal'ah, Afghanistan. Knowledge of UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and overall skin health, particularly in this Dsb climate zone where exposure can be intense. With peaks reaching a UV Index of 14 around midday, the risk of harm from sun exposure is substantial. Being aware of these levels empowers individuals to take necessary precautions, ensuring they enjoy the sun safely while minimizing potential health risks.
The UV Index today presents a striking pattern of intensity, peaking at 14 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, signaling the highest risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early risers will notice a moderate 4 at 7:00 AM that quickly escalates, reaching a robust 10 by 9:00 AM. As the sun ascends, it becomes crucial to take precautions—sunscreen and protective clothing are highly recommended. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with the index dropping to 5 at 3:00 PM and sinking to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the UV index settles at 0—perfect for evening strolls! Stay sun-smart during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 09:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant variation, particularly peaking during the spring and summer months. From March to August, the UV Index reaches extreme levels (11-14), with April and May being the highlights at a UV Index of 12 and 14, respectively, offering only 10 minutes of burn time for unprotected skin. February and October are also notable high-risk months with UV levels categorized as very high (8 and 9) but longer burn times of 15 minutes. As a result, it's crucial for both visitors and residents to take extra precautions from February through September, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to mitigate the risk of skin damage. The UV Index drops significantly in the fall and winter, allowing safer outdoor activity, particularly in November and December where burn times extend to 25 and 30 minutes, respectively.
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 |
| Chahar Qal'ah | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 5 |