Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Quetta, Pakistan, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you make informed decisions to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially in a region where the BSk climate brings intense sunlight and prolonged UV exposure. With peak UV Index values reaching as high as 14 around noon, it's essential to stay informed about these levels to minimize risk and enjoy the outdoors safely. Whether you're exploring the stunning landscapes or simply going about your daily activities, knowing the UV Index can significantly enhance your sun safety practices.
The UV index for the day reveals a striking pattern of sun exposure. Early risers will find UV levels moderate at 07:00 (1), but as the morning progresses, the intensity rises quickly. By 09:00, it has reached a notable 6, and by 11:00, the index peaks at a staggering 12. The midday sun is relentless, with readings maintaining a high of 14 from 12:00 to 13:00 before gradually tapering off. As the afternoon unfolds, the intensity decreases—15:00 shows a drop to 8, and then the numbers fall to 2 by 17:00. Finally, as day turns to twilight, UV exposure diminishes to a safe 1 by 19:00. For outdoor enthusiasts, it's essential to seek shade and apply sunscreen during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | 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, with the highest risk occurring from March to September. During these months, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, peaking at 14 in May and July, with a dangerously quick burn time of just 10 minutes. Conversely, the high-risk months of January and February still maintain a UV index of 6-7, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes, while October drops to 9, categorized as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage and sunburn. As the season advances into the cooler months, UV exposure decreases significantly, especially in December, where the UV Index falls to 5, categorized as moderate, allowing for longer safe exposure times.
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 |
| Karachi UVI | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 6 |
| Quetta | 6 | 7 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 |