Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Balgatay, Mongolia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding skin health in a region known for its arid BSk climate. Understanding UV levels is not just about avoiding sunburn; it plays a vital role in preventing long-term skin damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer. With UV levels peaking at 10 during midday hours, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about daily fluctuations in UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when harmful rays are at their strongest. By monitoring the UV Index, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful Mongolian outdoors.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a clear pattern of increasing intensity under the sun. Starting the morning at a moderate level of 2 at 07:00, the index gradually rises to a notable 3 by 08:00. By 09:00, it reaches a peak of 5, but the real intensity hits as it climbs to a significant 7 at 10:00. The sun’s potency peaks around 12:00, soaring to a maximum of 10, with this level sustained until 13:00. As the afternoon unfolds, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 9 by 14:00 and then tapering down to 7 at 15:00. The evening ushers in a gentle decline, with the UV Index falling to 3 at 17:00, and finally settling at a low 1 by 19:00. Always remember to protect your skin, especially during peak hours when UV exposure is at its highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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, with a noticeable increase from March to August. The high-risk months are April to August, where the UV Index reaches 8-10, categorized as very high; during this period, the recommended burn time decreases to just 15 minutes. In contrast, January and December exhibit low exposure levels, with a UV Index of 2 and a burn time of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during the high UV months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun's rays are the strongest. During the rest of the year, while the risk is lower, it is still advisable to be mindful of UV exposure, especially in March, September, and October with moderate UV levels.
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 |
| Balgatay | 2 | 3 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |