Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Al Mishkhab, Iraq, a place characterized by its arid climate and plentiful sunshine. With UV levels peaking around midday, reaching a maximum of 12, awareness of these readings can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. The risks associated with high UV exposure are particularly pronounced in this region, where outdoor activities during peak hours can lead to serious skin damage. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely and protect your precious skin from harmful rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a subtle 2 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to a moderate 4, indicating that sun protection is becoming essential. The intensity peaks sharply at 12:00, soaring to a striking 12, making this the most hazardous time for outdoor activities without adequate protection. The intensity slightly wanes after noon, dropping to 8 by 14:00, before continuing its graceful descent to a mere 1 by 17:00. As the day draws to a close, the UV risk diminishes to 0 by 19:00, allowing for evening outdoor enjoyment without concern. Don’t forget to shield your skin during those midday hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, impacting sun exposure risks. January and December have moderate levels with UV Indexes of 4, allowing for up to 30 minutes of exposure without burning. February sees an increase to a high level (UV Index 6) with a burn time of 25 minutes. The most critical months for UV exposure are March through May, with the UV Index peaking at 12 in May, indicating extreme conditions and a burn time of just 10 minutes. June follows closely with an index of 11 and July with 10, maintaining very high levels and necessitating caution. As summer transitions to early autumn, the UV index decreases but remains at very high levels through September and then drops to high in October (UV Index 7) with a burn time of 25 minutes, eventually returning to moderate levels in November. Residents and visitors should always check the UV Index and take appropriate sun safety measures, particularly during the late spring and summer months when the risk for skin damage is at its highest.
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 |
| Al Mishkhab | 4 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |