Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Khanabad, Afghanistan, where the sun can be particularly intense due to its Csa climate. Awareness of UV levels not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining overall skin health. With UV Index readings peaking at 11 around noon, the risks associated with sun exposure, including skin damage and long-term health concerns, are heightened. As the sun climbs higher during the day, especially from 9 AM to 1 PM, it's essential to stay informed and take protective measures to enjoy the beautiful Afghan sunshine safely.
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 year progresses, UV exposure levels undergo significant seasonal changes, marking March through August as high-risk months due to very high to extreme UV Index ratings. In March, the UV increases to 8, with a burn time of only 15 minutes, and peaks in May, June, and July at an extreme UV Index of 11, necessitating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially when UV levels are at their highest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.. As fall approaches, UV levels begin to taper off, but October still presents a high risk with an index of 6. Throughout the year, particularly from March to August, it is crucial to remain vigilant about sun protection to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Khanabad | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| 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 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 |