Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Kochkor, Kyrgyzstan, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the region's high altitude and dry climate typical of a BSk zone, the sun's rays can be deceptively strong, particularly during midday hours when UV levels peak at a staggering 11. Understanding these levels is key to preventing sunburn, reducing the risk of skin cancer, and maintaining healthy skin. Being informed about the UV Index not only helps you plan outdoor activities wisely but also empowers you to take necessary precautions against harmful exposure. Remember, staying sun-safe is essential under the bright skies of Kochkor!
The UV Index today showcases a striking pattern of intensity as the sun rises. Starting off at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 2 by 8:00 AM. A significant jump occurs at 9:00 AM, where it escalates to 4, setting the stage for a blazing midday. The peak sun exposure arrives at 12:00 PM with a scorching 11, persisting through 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, indicating extreme UV levels. As the afternoon wanes, a gradual decline brings the index down to 9 by 3:00 PM, then gently descending to 4 by 5:00 PM. By evening, the sun's intensity fades to 2 at 6:00 PM and finally settles back to 1 at 7:00 PM. It's clear: today calls for sun safety measures during peak hours!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | 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, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. January and February start with a moderate UV Index of 3 to 5, resulting in a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring arrives, the UV Index escalates, reaching 9 in March and 10 in April, indicating a very high risk where exposure should be limited to just 15 minutes. The intensity reaches its pinnacle during May, June, and July with an extreme UV Index of 11, allowing only 10 minutes of safe sun exposure. In August and September, the risk remains high with very high levels of 10 and 9 respectively. By October, the UV Index drops to 6 (high), allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. Finally, November and December return to a moderate UV Index of 3, granting a safer 30 minutes before burning. Residents and visitors should exercise caution during the high-risk months of March through September, ensuring they apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during peak UV times.
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 |
| Kochkor | 3 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 3 |
| Karakol UVI | 3 | 5 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |