Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Anah, Iraq, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin health against the sun's harmful rays. Understanding UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage, especially in a region characterized by a BWh climate, where sunny days are prevalent. Throughout the day, UV exposure can reach critical levels, peaking at 11 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, underscoring the importance of sun protection measures during these hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors can enjoy the outdoors while protecting their skin from potential harm.
The UV Index today unfolds dramatically as the sun rises, beginning at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM before peaking sharply at 11 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. The day starts to gain intensity at 9 by 10:00 AM, reaching a notable 10 an hour later, indicating a prime time for sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping back to 8 by 2:00 PM, then tapering off to 5 at 3:00 PM. By the late afternoon and into the evening, the pressure eases, falling to 3 at 4:00 PM and finally winding down to 1 by 6:00 PM and beyond. It's a stark reminder to stay sun-safe during the peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM, when the sun's rays pose the greatest risk.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure shows significant fluctuations, with the highest risk months occurring from March to September. During these months, particularly in May and June, the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 11, allowing for a burn time of only 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should be particularly vigilant during this peak season, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during midday hours. As we transition away from summer, October marks a slight decrease in UV risk with an index of 7 but remains in the high exposure category. From November to February, the UV levels decrease significantly, with burn times extending to 30 minutes in January and February. However, even at lower UV levels, it’s advisable to remain informed and practice sun safety to ensure protection year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mosul UVI | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Erbil UVI | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| 'Anah | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Abu Ghurayb UVI | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Baghdad UVI | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |