Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan, especially given the region’s unique climate and elevation. The UV Index indicates the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which peaks in the late morning and early afternoon, reaching levels of up to 13 in Karakol. Being mindful of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting long-term skin health, as even brief exposure can be damaging. With its Dfc climate, characterized by cool summers and high-altitude sunlight, Karakol presents distinct UV exposure risks that warrant attention. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while enjoying the beauty of this stunning destination!
The hourly UV Index data reveals a striking pattern of increasing sunlight intensity throughout the morning and afternoon. Starting at 7:00 AM, the index begins at a low 1, gradually rising to a moderate 3 by 8:00 AM. As the day progresses, the index skyrockets, reaching its peak of 13 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM—a crucial time to seek shade and apply sunscreen. After this zenith, the intensity begins to taper off, descending to 9 by 3:00 PM and falling further to 4 by 5:00 PM. Finally, the evening hours see a gentle decline, with the UV Index dropping to 1 again as the sun sets at 7:00 PM. This fluctuation underscores the importance of protection during peak hours, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when UV exposure is most intense.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | 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 |