Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Najaf, Iraq, as it serves as a key indicator of solar radiation levels and their potential impacts on your health. With high UV exposure particularly prevalent in the region's hot, arid climate, being aware of the UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and overall skin health. In Najaf, UV Index readings peak at 11 around noon, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about these levels, you can take timely precautions to protect yourself and enjoy the sun safely.
From 07:00 to 19:00, the UV Index experiences a dynamic climb, peaking sharply at 12:00 with a high of 11. Early morning hours start low, with a manageable 2 at 07:00, but as the sun ascends, the intensity increases. By 10:00, the index reaches 8, highlighting a need for sun protection. The critical hour arrives at 11:00, where the index hits 10, indicating very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After the midday peak, a gradual decline begins, with values dropping to 5 by 15:00, and continuing down to 0 by evening at 19:00. This pattern emphasizes the importance of sun safety measures, especially during those peak hours.
| 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 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 |
| Najaf | 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 |