Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Hukumati Azrah, Afghanistan, where the combination of its Cfb climate and high sun exposure can lead to significant skin health risks. With UV levels peaking at a dangerous 13 around midday, awareness becomes key to preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health. Recognizing the daily fluctuations of UV intensity—from a moderate 3 in the early hours to a staggering 12 at noon—allows you to plan outdoor activities safely. Stay informed and safeguard your skin against the potent sun!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a modest 3 at 7:00 AM, offering a gentle start to the day. However, by 8:00 AM, it ramps up to 6, signaling the need for sun protection. The real intensity peaks at 10:00 AM with a notable 12, reaching its maximum of 13 by 11:00 AM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After the midday peak, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 11 at 1:00 PM, before easing to 5 by 3:00 PM. As afternoon turns to evening, it continues to fall, resting at 1 by 5:00 PM and finally calming to 0 by 7:00 PM. This fluctuation highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during those peak hours when the UV Index is at its highest.
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
As we observe the seasonal changes in UV Index throughout the year, it's clear that high-risk months primarily occur from February to September, with the most extreme levels peaking in May through August at an index of 13. During these months, burn times decrease significantly to just 10 minutes, underscoring the importance of sun protection. February and October also present challenges with very high UV exposure. Visitors and residents should take proactive measures against UV radiation by wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during the peak hours of sunlight. As we transition into the winter months, UV exposure diminishes, but it's still prudent to remain vigilant, particularly during January and November when the index can still reach a high rating.
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 |
| 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 |
| Hukumati Azrah | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |