Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, where the sun's rays can present significant risks, especially during peak hours. With a climate classified as Cfa, the region experiences intense UV exposure, making it essential to grasp the daily fluctuations of these levels. Awareness of UV levels not only aids in preventing painful sunburns but also plays a vital role in safeguarding long-term skin health. Notably, as the UV Index soars to a staggering 12 around noon, residents should take proactive steps to protect their skin during the day, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV radiation is most intense.
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a dramatic rise, peaking at 12 around noon. Starting from a humble 2 at 7:00 AM, the intensity steadily climbs as the sun ascends. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 9, signaling that sun protection is essential. The zenith occurs at 11:00 AM with a staggering 11, followed closely by 12 at noon, making it crucial to seek shade and wear sunscreen. The index begins to taper off in the afternoon, descending to 6 by 3:00 PM, and then falls further to 1 as evening sets in. This trend underscores the importance of monitoring UV levels to ensure safe sun exposure at its peak.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, impacting the risk of sunburn for visitors and residents. High-risk months for UV exposure are from February to August, where the index reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13, resulting in a burn time of just 10 minutes during these peak periods. Particularly concerning are March, April, May, and July, where the UV Index consistently remains at 11 or 13. As the weather transitions into September and October, the UV levels decrease to very high, with burn times of 15 minutes. The winter months of November and December present a marked reduction in risk, with a moderate UV Index of 5 and burn times extending to 30 minutes. To stay safe, it is essential for individuals to take protective measures such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade specifically during the high-risk months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rawalpindi UVI | 4 | 5 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| Lahore UVI | 4 | 5 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 4 |
| Faisalabad UVI | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Multan UVI | 4 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Muzaffarabad | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 5 |
| Karachi UVI | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 6 |