Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ad Diwaniyah, Iraq, where the intense sun and dry climate can significantly increase exposure risks. The UV Index measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation, informing you when it's vital to take precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage. With typical peak levels reaching 10 during midday hours, knowing these values empowers you to protect your skin and maintain optimal health. Given Ad Diwaniyah's arid climate under the BWh zone, being aware of UV levels can help you enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risk of UV-related health issues.
The UV Index sees a dramatic rise as the day progresses, peaking at a robust 10 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, indicating high potential for skin damage without protection. Starting from a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, hitting 8 by 10:00 AM and reaching its zenith during the midday hours. As the afternoon rolls in, the UV levels begin to decline, dropping to 5 at 3:00 PM, and further decreasing to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM. This data highlights the importance of sun protection during peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, where the sun's intensity is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with March through September representing the months of highest risk for UV exposure. Notably, May peaks at an extreme UV Index of 12, demanding extra caution, while March and April each present a very high index of 9, indicating a significant risk of skin damage. During these high-risk months, visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, donning protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours. As the year transitions to October, the UV Index decreases to a moderate 7, allowing for a slight reduction in vigilance, but protective measures should still be practiced into the cooler months of November and December, where UV exposure remains at moderate levels, underscoring the importance of sun safety 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 |
| 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 |
| Ad Diwaniyah | 4 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |