Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Gilgit, Pakistan is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. The intensity of UV radiation can significantly rise during the day, peaking between 11 AM and 1 PM, with levels reaching as high as 15. Awareness of UV levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it crucial for residents and visitors alike. With Gilgit's BSk climate, characterized by dry conditions and strong sunlight, understanding these risks is vital for enjoying the outdoors safely. Stay informed and protect your skin from harmful UV rays!
The UV Index throughout the day shows a striking pattern of intensity that peaks magnificently at 12:00 PM with a high of 15. Starting off gently at 7:00 AM with a level of 3, the sun's rays gradually intensify. By 9:00 AM, the index reaches 9, and by 11:00 AM it escalates further to 14, indicating increasing caution for sun exposure. The apex comes at 10:00 AM, where it hits 12, then climbs to its maximum intensity at 12:00 PM with 15, making it crucial to seek shade or apply sunscreen. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with levels dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM and continuing to diminish through the evening, settling at 1 by 7:00 PM. Overall, this UV Index profile highlights the importance of midday sun protection when UV radiation is at its strongest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 15 | 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with the highest risk months falling between March and September, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 14 to 15 and the burn time dramatically decreases to just 10 minutes. In contrast, the months of January and February have a high UV Index of 6 to 7, while October presents a very high index of 9 with a burn time of 15 minutes. It’s vital for both visitors and residents during these peak months to take protective measures such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. As the year progresses toward the cooler months of November and December, the UV levels drop significantly, with December offering a moderate index of 4 and a burn time of 30 minutes. Understanding these changes can help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely throughout the year.
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 |
| Gilgit | 6 | 7 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 4 |