Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Kafir Qala, Afghanistan, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and health. As the sun’s intensity fluctuates throughout the day, understanding UV levels can help you avoid sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. Nestled in a BSk climate zone, Kafir Qala experiences a unique blend of dry and sunny weather, leading to significant UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index can soar to 12. By keeping track of the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can take proactive measures to enjoy the sun safely while protecting their skin health.
Starting the day at a leisurely 2 UV Index at 7 AM, the sun gradually escalates its intensity as the morning unfolds. By 9 AM, it reaches a vibrant 7, signaling the start of the peak hours. The UV Index soars to its zenith at 11 AM and 12 PM, hitting a striking 12, urging sun enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers to apply sunscreen and seek shade. As the afternoon progresses, the number drops to 11 at 1 PM and gently declines to 6 at 3 PM, making the later hours slightly more forgiving. By 4 PM, it settles at 3, before tapering off to 2 by 5 PM, and finally cooling down to a modest 1 by 6 PM. This hourly journey illustrates a classic sun cycle, where midday vigilance is vital for skin safety.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, highlighting the importance of sun safety. January sees a moderate UV Index of 4, while February ramps up to 6, indicating a transition towards potentially harmful sun exposure. The high-risk months are March through August, where the UV Index peaks at 12 in May, June, and July, categorized as extreme, with a dangerously short burn time of 10 minutes. September and October maintain a high UV Index; however, the risk decreases as it drops to 8 and 10, respectively. November and December revert to a moderate level of 4. To protect against harmful UV radiation, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during the high-risk months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure, especially during midday 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 |
| Kafir Qala | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 4 | 4 |
| 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 |