Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan, where high elevation and a Dfc climate can significantly elevate sun exposure risks. By monitoring UV levels, you can take essential steps to prevent sunburn and protect your skin health, making your outdoor experiences safer and more enjoyable. With peak UV Index values reaching a striking 14 around midday, awareness of these daily fluctuations helps you plan accordingly, ensuring that the stunning natural beauty of Karakol doesn't come at the cost of your well-being.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index reaches its peak during the midday hours, reflecting the intensity of the sun's rays. Starting at a gentle 2 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs to 3 by 08:00. By 09:00, it surges to 6, signaling the need for sun protection. At 10:00, the UV Index escalates to 9, and by 11:00, it hits a striking 12, marking a critical time for outdoor safety. The highest point is recorded at 12:00 and 13:00, both at a blazing 14, urging caution as the sun bears down. As the afternoon progresses, the values start to wane, dropping to 13 at 14:00, and then gradually declining to 10 at 15:00. The evening brings relief, with levels decreasing to 4 by 17:00, and continuing to drop to 2 by 18:00, finally reaching a restful 1 at 19:00. This fluctuation throughout the day emphasizes the importance of staying sun-safe, especially during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels vary significantly, with March to August being the peak months for ultraviolet radiation exposure. March sees the UV Index rise to 9, indicating very high risk, while April and May reach extreme levels of 11 and 14, respectively, with dangerously short burn times of just 10 minutes. High-risk months include April and May, where protective measures should be taken seriously. As summer continues, July and August maintain extreme levels before tapering off to very high in September. In contrast, the winter months of January, November, and December present moderate risks with longer burn times of 30 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during the highest UV Index months to prevent skin damage and ensure safety under the sun.
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 |
| 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 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |