Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Kufa, Iraq, is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With UV levels peaking at a dangerous 12 during midday hours, awareness can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. Kufa's arid BWh climate brings with it a high potential for UV exposure, especially from late morning to early afternoon when the sun is at its most intense. By staying informed about current UV readings, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the sun safely while protecting their skin.
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic daily variation in sunlight exposure. Starting low at 07:00 with a UVI of 2, it steadily climbs as the day progresses, peaking at an intense 12 by 12:00—the point of maximum sun intensity. Hours 10:00 to 13:00 present significant UV risks, with values reaching up to 11, urging caution for outdoor activities. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually diminishes, dropping to 6 by 15:00 and further declining to 1 after 17:00, signaling a safe window for evening outings. Overall, this data underscores the importance of sun protection during peak hours, specifically between 10:00 and 14:00.
| 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 | 9 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
| Kufa | 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 |