Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Quetta, Pakistan, where the semi-arid BSk climate presents unique challenges for skin health. High levels of ultraviolet radiation can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer, making awareness of UV levels essential for safeguarding your health. Typically, Quetta experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours, with indices soaring up to 14 around midday. By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, you can enjoy the sun while protecting your skin from its harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index (UVI) begins its gentle ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it ramps up to 3, signaling the need for caution. The sun’s intensity reaches its peak between 11:00 and 13:00, soaring to a blistering 12 and 14, respectively—ideal moments to seek shade or lather up with sunscreen. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually dips, descending to 9 by 15:00, then tapering off to 6 at 16:00. By the evening, from 17:00 onward, the UVI returns to its gentle morning levels of 3 and finally 1 at 18:00 and 19:00, concluding the day on a decidedly safer note. Keep in mind, the midday hours are crucial for sun safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | 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 |