Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Faizabad, Afghanistan is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With high levels of ultraviolet radiation, particularly during the midday hours—where the index peaks at 11—it's important to be aware of how UV exposure can lead to sunburns, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Faizabad's semi-arid climate (BSk) means that sunny days are a common occurrence, making it even more vital for residents and visitors to monitor UV levels regularly. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures to safeguard yourself from harmful effects while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
The UV Index begins its climb at 07:00 with a moderate 3, signaling a gentle start to the day. By 08:00, it escalates to 5, and as the sun reaches its zenith, the intensity peaks at an impressive 11 by 11:00 and remains constant until 12:00. This critical time urges sun enthusiasts to protect their skin, as exposure becomes significant. The afternoon brings a gradual decline, with values dropping to 9 at 13:00 and tapering off to 5 by 15:00. As the day wanes, the Index slips further, landing at 1 by 17:00, signaling a safer time to enjoy outdoor activities. As twilight approaches, the UV threat diminishes, ultimately reaching a 0 by 19:00. Enjoy the sun wisely!
| 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 | 10 | 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Faizabad | 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 |