Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense due to its high-altitude climate. Awareness of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and promotes overall skin health, making it essential to monitor these levels throughout the day. In Balykchy, typical summer UV readings can soar to as high as 11 between noon and early afternoon, highlighting the need for proper sun protection during those hours. With an understanding of UV exposure risks, you can enjoy the beautiful sunny days while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dramatic rise in solar intensity. Starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, it climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 08:00. The real spike occurs as the sun climbs higher, with the index jumping to 4 at 09:00, before peaking at a striking 11 by 13:00—the highest risk of the day. After this peak, the UV levels gradually taper off, dropping to 8 at 15:00, and settling to a gentle 2 by 18:00. Remember to don that sunscreen during the midday hours to protect your skin from the sun’s powerful rays!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, peaking during the summer months. January and December see a low UV Index of 2, allowing for safe outdoor activities with a burn time of 45 minutes. February increases to a moderate UV Index of 4, urging a 30-minute limit for sun exposure. The months from March to August represent the high-risk season, with UV indices reaching 7 to 11, where burn times drop significantly to 10-25 minutes. May, June, and July stand out as the highest risk months, classified as having an extreme UV Index of 11. As the year progresses, the UV Index begins to decline, with September (UV 8) and October (UV 6) still posing high risks, although burn times increase slightly to 15-25 minutes. As a precaution, visitors and residents should take protective measures—such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses—particularly during the peak months from March to August.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bishkek UVI | 3 | 4 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
Balykchy | 2 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
Tokmok UVI | 3 | 4 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
Jalal-Abad UVI | 3 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
Osh UVI | 3 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
Karakol UVI | 3 | 5 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |