Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Aliabad, Afghanistan, where the arid BSk climate often leads to higher sun exposure risks. Being aware of UV levels helps protect against sunburns and long-term skin health issues, especially during peak hours when readings can soar to 11, indicating a very high risk. As the sun climbs in the sky from morning to early afternoon, it's essential for the community to monitor UV fluctuations and take proactive measures to ensure their skin’s safety while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins a steady ascent, starting at a moderate 3 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 5, catching the attention of early risers. The intensity peaks dramatically at 10:00 AM, hitting a blistering 10, and remains at its highest at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a value of 11. As the afternoon unfolds, the index slowly retreats, dipping to 9 at 1:00 PM and further to 7 by 2:00 PM. By the time the sun begins its descent, the numbers dwindle to 4 at 3:00 PM, and taper off to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM, disappearing entirely by 7:00 PM. This hourly fluctuation underscores the importance of sun protection during those peak hours, especially when the UV Index soars. Remember to stay safe and shield yourself during the hottest times of the day!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | 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 does the UV Index, significantly affecting skin exposure risks. From January to February, the UV Index remains at a moderate level (4-5), allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. However, a noticeable increase occurs in March and April, with the UV Index jumping to 8 and 10, respectively, indicating very high exposure risk and a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. The UV Index peaks in May, June, and July at a dangerous level of 11—classified as extreme—where only 10 minutes of exposure is safe. As summer fades, August and September see a slight decrease to 10 and 9, yet still in the very high category, demanding careful sun protection to avoid burns in just 15 minutes. October brings relief with a high UV Index of 7, allowing for a safer 25-minute exposure time, before returning to moderate levels in November and December (4), where safe exposure time goes back to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise caution, especially between March and September, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard their skin health.
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 |
| `Aliabad | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 4 |
| 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 |
| Kabul UVI | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |