UV Index in Kandahar, Afghanistan

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Kandahar, Afghanistan, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With high UV levels, particularly peaking at 11 around midday, understanding these readings can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Kandahar's BSk climate brings intense sunlight, amplifying the risks associated with UV exposure. By staying informed about UV levels throughout the day, you can take proactive measures to ensure your outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable.

Hourly UV Index in Kandahar

The UV Index today reaches its peak intensity around 11:00 AM, soaring to a striking 13 before slowly tapering off. Starting from a modest 3 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, hitting 8 by 9:00 AM and 11 by 10:00 AM. After its midday high, the index gradually declines throughout the afternoon, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and dwindling to 1 by 5:00 PM, ultimately settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. To ensure safety during peak hours, it's crucial to maximize sun protection, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the risk is the highest.

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.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	3	moderate	30 min
08:00	5	moderate	30 min
09:00	8	very high	15 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	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	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kandahar

Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risks occurring during the late spring and summer months. From March to August, the UV index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 13, which signifies a maximum burn time of just 10 minutes. Notably, April, May, June, July, and August are identified as high-risk months for skin damage due to UV exposure. As such, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions, including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen liberally. Conversely, January and December present lower risks with moderate UV levels (index 5) and longer burn times of 30 minutes, making sun protection less critical but still advisable. Always be vigilant about UV exposure, especially during the periods of heightened risk.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kandahar, Afghanistan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Kandahar. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Kandahar, 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 Kandahar UV Index with Other Afghanistan Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kandahar 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.

Kandahar's solar exposure compared to other cities in Afghanistan. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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	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