Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Aliabad, Afghanistan, where the subarid BSk climate leads to significant sun exposure, particularly during the peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM. As the UV levels can soar to a maximum of 11 during midday, being aware of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and ensuring long-term skin health. With daily risks fluctuating from moderate to very high, knowledge of the UV Index allows residents to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and enjoy the beautiful Afghan sun safely.
The UV Index data paints a vivid picture of a sun-soaked day. Starting at 3 at 7:00 AM, it quickly rises to 5 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index reaches its peak at 11 during the 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM hours, signaling a time when protective measures are crucial. Following this zenith, there's a steady decline, slipping to 9 at 1:00 PM, and tapering off to 2 by 4:00 PM. The afternoon sun is still formidable, but by 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, the index wanes to 1 and 0, respectively, inviting a gentle evening. Stay sun-smart during those peak hours!
| 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 | 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 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 |