UV Index in Istalif, Afghanistan

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Istalif, Afghanistan, given its significant impact on daily life and health. With the region's Dsb climate leading to intense sun exposure, awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. The data reveals striking peaks in the UV Index, particularly between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when levels can reach as high as 13, indicating a high risk for harmful effects. Being informed about these UV levels allows individuals to take necessary precautions, ensuring they enjoy the sun while protecting their skin from potential damage.

Hourly UV Index in Istalif

The UV Index (UVI) throughout the day presents a striking pattern of intensity and risk. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mild 3, but by 08:00, it surges to 6, indicating a moderate risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. The intensity peaks dramatically at 10:00, hitting a blistering 12, and maintains a high level of 13 at both 11:00 and 12:00. As the afternoon progresses, the UVI begins to decline, dropping to 11 at 13:00 and then more notably to 8 at 14:00. By 15:00, it further decreases to 5, signaling a safer window for outdoor activities, before tapering off to 3 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the index falls to a low 1 by 17:00, remaining at this level until it hits 0 by 19:00. For sun safety, the key takeaway is to protect yourself during the peak hours of 10:00 to 14:00 when the UV intensity is most severe.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:003moderate30 min
08:006high25 min
09:009very high15 min
10:0012extreme10 min
11:0013extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:008very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:003moderate30 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Istalif

The seasonal fluctuations in UV Index reveal significant changes, with the highest levels occurring from March to September. These months consistently demonstrate an extreme category UV Index, peaking at 14 in May, where visitors and residents should be particularly cautious, as the burn time is just 10 minutes. February and October are also high-risk months, marked as very high exposure categories, with burn times of 15 minutes. Conversely, the UV Index decreases in the winter months, with December showing a moderate level and a longer 30-minute burn time. To minimize risks of UV-related harm, it is essential for everyone to adopt protective measures during these high and extreme exposure months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Istalif, Afghanistan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Istalif. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6812131413131211865
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Istalif, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Istalif UV Index with Other Afghanistan Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Istalif compares to other major locations across Afghanistan. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Istalif's solar exposure compared to other cities in Afghanistan. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mazar-e Sharif UVI3589111111109743
Jalalabad UVI459101211121110753
Herat UVI5610111312121110854
Kandahar UVI5710111313131211965
Kabul UVI6710121313131211864
Istalif6812121413131211865