Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Bayanhongor, Mongolia, is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's semi-arid BSk climate, characterized by long, sunny days and fluctuating temperatures. During peak hours, the UV Index can soar as high as 10, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about UV levels, residents can take essential precautions to protect their skin health and enjoy the sunny outdoor activities this beautiful region offers, while minimizing the risks associated with harmful ultraviolet radiation.
The UV Index reveals a striking pattern throughout the day, peaking in the early afternoon. Starting with a gentle rise at 07:00 with a score of 1, the index climbs to 2 by 08:00. It gains momentum, reaching 4 at 09:00 and escalating to a moderate 6 by 10:00. The sun climbs even higher, hitting 8 at 11:00 and maxing out at a sizzling 10 between 12:00 and 14:00. As the afternoon wanes, the intensity begins to drop, slipping to 9 at 15:00, then gradually declining to 4 by 17:00. By the time evening rolls in at 18:00, the Risk subsides to 2, before concluding the day at 1 by 19:00. A clear reminder of the sun's power—be sun-smart during those 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 9 | 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, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, with significant increases from late winter to summer. January and December represent the lowest risk months, with UV Index values of 2, categorizing them as low exposure, allowing for 45 minutes of sun without protection. As spring transitions into summer, from March (Index 6) to June (Index 10), the risk grows substantially, peaking during the summer months of May through August, where the UV Index remains at a very high level of 10, necessitating protective measures after just 15 minutes of sun exposure. April marks the start of this high-risk period, with a very high exposure category and only 15 minutes till burn. In the fall, the UV Index decreases, but September still holds a high index of 7, allowing for 25 minutes of burn time. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety during the high-risk months from April to August by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Darhan UVI | 1 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Erdenet UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Ulan Bator UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 1 |
| OElgii UVI | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 2 | 1 |
| Khovd UVI | 2 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 2 | 1 |
| Bayanhongor | 2 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |