Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Almaty, Kazakhstan, especially given the city's elevation and typical Dfa climate, which can lead to increased UV exposure. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and promoting skin health, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities safely. With UV Index values peaking at 11 around midday, the risks of overexposure are significant, making it essential to check UV levels daily to shield your skin from harmful effects while exploring the stunning landscapes the region has to offer.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting from a mild 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 5, setting the stage for a bright day ahead. The intensity peaks sharply around 12:00, hitting a staggering 10, before reaching its highest point of 11 at 13:00—a crucial time to take precautions against sun exposure. Gradually, the index begins to wane after the noon peak, dropping to 8 by 15:00 and further to a gentle 2 by 18:00. As evening falls, the UV Index returns to a safe 1 by 19:00, marking the end of the day's solar intensity. Remember, staying protected during the peak hours from 11:00 to 14:00 is key!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the summer months of May through July when the UV levels reach an extreme category of 11. The months of March to August represent the high-risk period for UV exposure, making it crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions. During this time, burn times decrease significantly, dropping to 10-15 minutes in the peak months, highlighting the need for protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing. January through February and October through November present a moderate risk with more manageable burn times of 30 minutes, while the winter months of December and January see lower risk levels, categorized as low, with burn times extending to 45 minutes. It is advisable for everyone to remain vigilant about UV exposure, especially during the high-risk months to ensure skin safety and health.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nur-Sultan UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Karagandy UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| Taraz UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Shymkent UVI | 2 | 3 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Almaty | 2 | 4 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |