Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Skardu, Pakistan, being aware of the UV Index is vital for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day enables residents and visitors to take proactive measures, reducing the risk of skin damage from harmful ultraviolet rays. With Skardu’s Dfb climate characterized by high-altitude exposure, the UV Index can soar to levels that demand attention, peaking at 16 around noon. By staying informed about UV exposure risks, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Skardu while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index data reveals a striking pattern throughout the day, starting with a mild maximum of 3 at 7:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the intensity surges, peaking at an impressive 17 by noon. The 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM period is particularly intense, reaching 16 and then 17, indicating the most hazardous sun exposure times. Following this peak, the index begins to decline—15 at 1:00 PM, decreasing further to 12 by 2:00 PM, and tapering off to 4 by 4:00 PM. As the sun sets, UV exposure diminishes rapidly, dropping to 1 at 6:00 PM and finally settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when UV radiation poses the highest risk.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 09:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 17 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |