Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Simikot, Nepal, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With peak UV levels soaring to 16 around midday, awareness of these readings can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. The climate in Simikot, classified as Dwc, means that even during cooler months, exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays is a real concern. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas while safeguarding your skin from the sun's damaging effects.
The UV Index starts off relatively low at 3 by 7:00 AM, but quickly escalates to a peak of 16 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. This is the perfect time to stay vigilant and protect your skin, as the 10 and 14 levels from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM signal an increase in harmful UV radiation. As the afternoon rolls in, the intensity begins to decline, dropping sharply to 7 by 3:00 PM, and further down to 1 by 5:00 PM, ultimately reaching 0 by 7:00 PM. For those planning outdoor activities, keeping an eye on the UV Index ensures a safe and enjoyable experience under the sun!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 09:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, peaking during the spring and summer months. Notably, March through October consistently presents extreme UV levels, with the highest recorded in April and June at a UV Index of 17 and 19, respectively, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes. This indicates a high-risk period for sunburn, especially for those with fair skin or extended outdoor activities. January and February also highlight high-risk months, with UV indices of 9 and 11. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to adopt protective measures during these times, including wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses to minimize UV exposure. Conversely, as we move into November and December, the UV levels decrease, providing slightly safer outdoor conditions with a burn time of 15 and 25 minutes, respectively. However, it remains wise to keep an eye on UV levels year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biratnagar UVI | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Birganj UVI | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| Patan UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 |
| Kathmandu UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 |
| Pokhara UVI | 7 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 |
| Simikot | 9 | 11 | 16 | 17 | 17 | 19 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 10 | 7 |