Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Karachi, Pakistan is crucial for protecting your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation, especially in a region known for its BWh climate that combines heat and sun. As UV levels can soar to a peak of 12 during the afternoon, awareness of these ratings helps residents and visitors alike to take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With Karachi's intense sunlight, understanding UV levels is essential not just for sun protection, but also for promoting overall skin health in daily life. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
The UV Index for the day showcases a dynamic rise and fall in intensity, peaking at 12 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, indicating a time when sun protection is crucial. The day starts off with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 5 by 9:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index escalates sharply, hitting 10 by 11:00 AM and maxing out at 12 at noon. After this peak, the intensity begins to decline, with 10 at 2:00 PM, tapering down to 7 by 3:00 PM, and gradually diminishing to 1 by 7:00 PM. It's a vivid reminder to stay mindful of sun exposure during the midday hours when the sun's rays are strongest!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 experiences significant seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the summer months. High-risk months include March through August, with April and July/August marked as particularly critical, ranging from UV Index 10 to 12 and categorized as extreme exposure, necessitating careful precautions. In these months, the recommended burn time decreases to 10 minutes, highlighting the urgency for protective measures. Visitors and residents are advised to take proper precautions, such as applying sunscreen with high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage. As the year transitions to fall and winter, the UV levels drop, but vigilance is still important, especially in February and early March, when UV levels remain notably high.
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 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 6 |