UV Index in Chitral, Pakistan

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Chitral, Pakistan, where the beautiful mountains meet high-altitude sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health, especially as Chitral experiences varying UV intensity throughout the day. With peak UV Index values soaring to 15 at noon, even a short stay outdoors without protection can lead to harmful effects. Given Chitral's Dsb climate, where the sun can be both a warm companion and a potential risk, it's imperative to stay informed about these fluctuations to safeguard yourself and your loved ones from UV-related damage.

Hourly UV Index in Chitral

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady climb, reaching a modest 2 by 07:00. By 08:00, it jumps to 5, signaling more intensity as the day unfolds. The peak arrives at 12:00, when the index soars to a striking 15, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The UV levels hover around the 14 mark until 13:00 before gradually tapering off through the afternoon. By 15:00, it drops to an 8, and the evening sees it dwindling further to 5 at 16:00. The day concludes with a safe 2 by 17:00, and finally settles at a gentle 1 for the late hours, reminding us to stay sun-smart as the sun sets.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	5	moderate	30 min
09:00	8	very high	15 min
10:00	12	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Chitral

As seasonal UV levels fluctuate throughout the year, visitors and residents should be particularly aware of high-risk months, which include February to September. During these months, the UV Index frequently reaches extreme levels, peaking at 15 in May. This results in a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. In contrast, January and November show moderate to high exposure categories, with burn times stretching to 25 minutes, while December offers the lowest UV levels, categorized as moderate, allowing around 30 minutes of sun exposure. It is crucial for everyone to stay informed and take necessary precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially when UV levels surge.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chitral, Pakistan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Chitral. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Chitral, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Chitral UV Index with Other Pakistan Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chitral compares to other major locations across Pakistan. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Chitral's solar exposure compared to other cities in Pakistan. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Chitral	6	8	14	14	15	14	14	12	11	9	6	5