Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Skardu, Pakistan, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburns, especially given the region's unique climate and elevation. With typical UV levels soaring to 15 during midday hours, residents and visitors alike must understand the risks associated with high UV exposure. By tracking UV levels throughout the day, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM when the index peaks, individuals can take proactive measures—like applying sunscreen and seeking shade—to protect themselves from harmful effects. In a place renowned for its stunning landscapes but with significant sun exposure, understanding the UV Index is essential for enjoying the great outdoors safely.
As the sun rises on this bright day, the UV Index begins at a moderate level of 2 at 7:00 AM, but by 9:00 AM, it escalates to 8, urging outdoor enthusiasts to be cautious. The peak UV intensity hits 15 at 12:00 PM, a clear reminder to seek shade and wear protective clothing. Although it slightly dips to 11 by 2:00 PM, the risks remain significant, falling to a more manageable 4 by late afternoon at 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, UV levels retreat to 2 at 5:00 PM, and by evening, they settle at 1 for a gentler end to the day. Remember, staying sun smart is crucial, especially during those mid-day hours!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest risks observed from February to September. The peak months for UV exposure are March to June, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 14 to 17 and the burn time reduces dramatically to just 10 minutes. It is crucial for both visitors and residents to take proper precautions during these months, such as applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. In contrast, January and November show high levels with a UV Index of 6 to 7, allowing for longer burn times of 25 minutes, while December and January pose moderate risks with a UV Index of 5. To ensure safety and protect skin health, it is advisable to stay vigilant during high-risk months and adjust sun protection strategies accordingly.
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 |
| Skardu | 6 | 8 | 14 | 16 | 17 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 |