Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for the residents of Shaykh Amir Kelay, Afghanistan, where the combination of a humid subtropical climate and high sun exposure can lead to significant health risks. With UV levels peaking at an intense 11 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations is crucial in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. By recognizing the UV Index throughout the day, you can make informed choices about sun safety—whether it’s applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, or adjusting outdoor activities. Stay informed and shield yourself from the sun's harmful rays to enjoy the beautiful Afghan landscape safely.
At dawn, the UV Index starts gently at 3 around 07:00, but as the sun climbs higher, so does the intensity. By 09:00, it reaches 9, signaling a peak in midday sun exposure. The zenith occurs at 11:00, with an impressive 13—a clear reminder to don sunscreen and seek shade. The index slightly dips to 12 by 12:00, before declining gradually throughout the afternoon. At 15:00, it drops to 5, and by 17:00, it’s a mere 1, signifying a gentle twilight. As night approaches, the UV Index settles at 0 by 19:00, closing a day of fluctuating sun strength. Stay mindful of the UV levels to protect your skin throughout the day!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so too does the UV Index, significantly affecting sun safety for both visitors and residents. January starts with a moderate UV Index of 4, but by February, it rises to 6, marking the beginning of high-risk months. The danger peaks in March and April, with UV indices of 10 and 11, categorized as very high and extreme, respectively, resulting in a burn time of just 15 minutes and 10 minutes. Throughout May and July, the UV Index reaches 12 and 13, making these the most hazardous months for sun exposure. As summer transitions to fall, September's index drops to 10, while October sees a decline to 7, indicating a return to higher safety levels. November and December stabilize the UV Index at 5 and 4, respectively, where moderate exposure returns. It's crucial for everyone to remain vigilant during the high-risk months of February through August, utilizing proper sun protection measures such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to minimize the risk of sunburn.
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 |
| Shaykh Amir Kelay | 4 | 6 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 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 |