Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Shaykh Amir Kelay, Afghanistan, where the climate typically lends itself to high sun exposure. With peak UV levels soaring to 12 around midday, being aware of these fluctuations is essential to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious skin issues, making it vital to monitor UV radiation, especially in this region characterized by its warm, humid summers. By staying informed about UV levels, you can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing health risks.
At 07:00, the UV Index starts at a modest 3, but as the sun rises higher, the intensity ramps up quickly. By 08:00, it jumps to 6, and by 09:00, it reaches 9, signaling a strong need for sun protection. The peak occurs at 11:00, soaring to 12, marking the day’s zenith for UV exposure. As we move into the afternoon, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 at 13:00 and 7 at 14:00. The late afternoon brings a further decrease, with values falling to 4 by 15:00 and tapering off to 2 at 16:00. By 17:00, the UV Index settles at 1, and the evening transitions into darkness with a comforting 0 at 19:00. It's a clear reminder to stay vigilant about sun safety during the peak hours!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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 |