Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bagrami, Afghanistan, where the potential for harmful sun exposure is significant due to its Dsb climate. Being aware of UV levels can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin health issues, especially during peak hours when the index soars to a maximum of 13 around noon. With typical exposure risks peaking from 9 AM to 1 PM, staying informed about these levels ensures you can enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from damaging rays. Whether you're planning outdoor activities or just soaking up the scenery, knowing the UV Index is your first line of defense against UV overexposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a modest 3 at 7:00 AM, offering a gentle start to the day. However, by 8:00 AM, it ramps up to 6, signaling the need for sun protection. The real intensity peaks at 10:00 AM with a notable 12, reaching its maximum of 13 by 11:00 AM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After the midday peak, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 11 at 1:00 PM, before easing to 5 by 3:00 PM. As afternoon turns to evening, it continues to fall, resting at 1 by 5:00 PM and finally calming to 0 by 7:00 PM. This fluctuation highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during those peak hours when the UV Index is at its highest.
| 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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. From March to August, the UV Index frequently reaches extreme levels, with values of 12 to 13 and a reduced burn time of just 10 minutes. April and May present the highest risk, both categorized as extreme. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these high-risk months, particularly from March to September, when sun exposure can result in severe skin damage in a short amount of time. While January and February still carry a high risk, with a UV Index of 6 to 7 and a burn time of 25 minutes, the danger escalates significantly in the spring and summer. To stay safe, it is advisable to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen. By being mindful of the UV Index, you can enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing the risk of harmful effects from sun exposure.
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 |
| Bagrami | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
| Kabul UVI | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |