UV Index in Al Qa'im, Iraq

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Al Qa'im, Iraq, as it serves as a vital tool for sun safety and skin health. With the region's BWh climate, characterized by hot and dry conditions, awareness of UV levels can help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage. Notably, the UV Index in Al Qa'im peaks between 10 AM and 2 PM, reaching a maximum of 11 during midday, prompting the need for vigilant sun protection strategies during these hours. By staying informed, you can enjoy the sunny days without compromising your skin’s health.

Hourly UV Index in Al Qa'im

As the day unfolds, the UV Index reaches its peak during the late morning and early afternoon hours. Starting at a modest 2 by 07:00, the intensity steadily climbs, hitting 3 by 08:00 before surging to 6 by 09:00. The sun truly asserts itself around 10:00, where the index soars to 8, and by 11:00, it hits a striking 11—the maximum for the day. This intense UV exposure remains consistent until 13:00, when conditions maintain an index of 11. Gradually, the UV rays start to wane, dropping to 9 by 14:00, then further declining to 6 at 15:00. In the late afternoon and evening, the index recedes to 4 at 16:00, followed by 2 at 17:00, tapering off to a gentle 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. It's a perfect reminder to stay vigilant about sun protection during those peak hours!

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	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	11	extreme	10 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	4	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 Al Qa'im

Seasonal UV changes indicate a significant increase in UV Index levels from January through May, reaching its peak of 11 during the months of May and June, categorized as extreme risk. The high-risk months for sun exposure are March through June, where the burn time decreases to as little as 10-15 minutes depending on the month. As summer transitions to autumn, UV levels gradually decline, with October exhibiting a UV Index of 7 categorized as high, before tapering off to more moderate levels in the winter months. To ensure safety, visitors and residents are advised to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and limit direct sun exposure, especially during high-risk months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Al Qa'im, Iraq

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Al Qa'im. 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 Al Qa'im, 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 Al Qa'im UV Index with Other Iraq Cities

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

Al Qa'im's solar exposure compared to other cities in Iraq. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Al Qa'im	4	6	8	9	11	11	10	10	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