Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Altai, Mongolia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With UV levels peaking at a significant 10 during midday hours, residents and visitors alike need to stay informed to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The region's BSk climate presents unique UV exposure risks, particularly during the sunny months, making it essential to monitor the UV Index regularly. By staying aware of these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful Altai landscapes while protecting yourself from harmful ultraviolet rays.
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 marked increases during the spring and summer months. January and December show a low UV Index of 2, allowing for a safe burn time of 45 minutes, while February and November present a moderate risk with an index of 3 and a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring arrives, March escalates to a high index of 7, with a burn time of 25 minutes, and by April through August, the index reaches a very high level of 10. During these peak summer months, burn times drastically decrease to 15 minutes, indicating a critical risk for skin damage. September sees a decrease to a high index of 7, followed by a gradual decline in October (5) and November (3). For visitors and residents, it is essential to take precautions during the high-risk months of April through August by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to minimize harmful exposure.
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 |
| Altai | 2 | 3 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |