Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Almaty, Kazakhstan, especially in a city where sunny days are common. Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintains overall skin health, crucial for long-term well-being. With a continental climate (Dfa), Almaty's summers can bring intense UV rays, peaking at admirable levels of 10 around midday. This highlights the importance of taking precautions—whether it's wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, or seeking shade—to safeguard yourself from potential skin damage as you enjoy the beautiful Almaty outdoors.
The UV Index data unveils a dynamic progression of sun intensity throughout the day. Starting low at 1 at 07:00, the index gradually escalates, reaching maximum levels of 10 between 12:00 and 14:00. This peak signals a critical time for sun protection. As the afternoon wanes, the index tapers off to 8 at 15:00, and then descends further to 3 by 17:00, and 2 by 18:00. Ultimately, the day concludes softly with a return to 1 at 19:00. It's essential to stay vigilant during those peak hours to safeguard your skin while enjoying the sun!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | 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 |