Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Ash Shamiyah, Iraq, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the UV levels can help you take necessary precautions to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during peak hours when the index reaches a maximum of 10 around midday. The region’s BWh climate often results in intense sun exposure, making it vital to stay informed about daily UV readings. By checking the UV Index regularly, residents and visitors can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the risks associated with harmful ultraviolet radiation.
The UV index throughout the day showcases its peak intensity during midday hours. Starting at a mild 2 at 07:00, it steadily rises to 3 by 08:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the index skyrockets to 10 from 11:00 to 13:00, marking the highest risk for sun exposure. After this zenith, the index begins its descent, falling to 8 at 14:00, and gradually tapering off to 5 at 15:00. By late afternoon, the UV levels drop further to 3 and then to 2 by 17:00, before fading to 1 by 18:00 and eventually 0 after 19:00. It’s a clear reminder to savor the sun wisely, especially during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal changes, impacting sun safety for visitors and residents alike. From February to September, the UV Index reaches its peak, particularly in May, where it hits 12 and falls under the extreme exposure category, necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes. Other high-risk months include March and April with very high ratings of 8 and 9, as well as June and July, which maintain high levels of exposure. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen to minimize their risk of UV-related harm. As the year winds down, October and November offer relatively lower UV levels, allowing for more extended sun exposure with caution, while January and December mark the safest months with moderate UV indices. Staying informed and vigilant about these seasonal changes is essential for enjoying the outdoors safely.
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 |
| Ash Shamiyah | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |