Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Sang-e Mashah, Afghanistan. With its unique Dsb climate, this area experiences significant variations in UV exposure throughout the day, especially peaking at a maximum index of 14 around midday. Being aware of UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for safeguarding your long-term skin health. As the sun's rays can become intense quickly, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing risks associated with overexposure. Stay informed and protect your skin in this sun-drenched region!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 14 between 11:00 and 12:00, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early birds will feel the rays start to intensify at 8:00 with a considerable 6, reaching 9 by 9:00. By 10:00, it soars to a striking 12, warning outdoor enthusiasts to seek shade. As the afternoon progresses, the index slowly retreats, dropping to 9 at 14:00, before cascading down to 1 by 17:00. The day concludes with a UV index of 0 at 19:00, making it a perfect time for evening strolls without the worry of harmful rays. Remember to stay sun-safe during the peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 09:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | 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, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, peaking during the late spring and summer months. January begins with a high UV index of 7, but by February, the index jumps to 9 (very high), and climbs to an extreme level of 15 in May. March through September experiences extreme levels, with April peaking at 13 and May reaching 15, necessitating quick reapplication of sun protection. High-risk months include February through September, where burn times drop to as low as 10 minutes. As the year progresses into fall, the UV index begins to decline, with October (very high, 9) and November (high, 6) remaining cautionary. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take proactive sun safety measures during high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
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 |
| Sang-e Mashah | 7 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 5 |