Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Rawah, Iraq, where the climate is predominantly hot and arid (BWh). With peak UV levels reaching 11 around midday, awareness of daily sun exposure is essential to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. As Rawah typically experiences high UV radiation for much of the year, being informed about these levels empowers individuals to take proactive measures against harmful effects, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience.
Experience a day of varied UV intensity as the sun rises and warms the sky. The UV Index climbs steadily, starting modestly at 2 at 07:00, before escalating to a moderate 6 by 09:00. The peak arrives in the late morning, hitting a striking 11 at 11:00 and maintaining this level through 12:00. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually recedes to 10 at 13:00, then softly declines to 8 by 14:00. The evening sees a further drop, with the UV Index settling at 6 at 15:00 and tapering off to 2 by 17:00, finally resting at 1 through the evening hours. Stay protected during those high exposure times, especially around noon when it’s critical to shield yourself from the sun’s rays!
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | 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 |
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 |
| Rawah | 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 |