Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Choman, Iraq, a region known for its Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers. Awareness of UV levels not only aids in preventing sunburns but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. Given that the UV Index can peak at a striking 12 around midday, it's essential to stay informed about daily fluctuations, especially as typical exposure risks rise significantly during the summer months. Empower yourself with knowledge and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the sun safely in beautiful Choman!
The UV Index throughout the day exhibits a dramatic rise, peaking at 12 around noon. Starting from a humble 2 at 7:00 AM, the intensity steadily climbs as the sun ascends. By 10:00 AM, it reaches 9, signaling that sun protection is essential. The zenith occurs at 11:00 AM with a staggering 11, followed closely by 12 at noon, making it crucial to seek shade and wear sunscreen. The index begins to taper off in the afternoon, descending to 6 by 3:00 PM, and then falls further to 1 as evening sets in. This trend underscores the importance of monitoring UV levels to ensure safe sun exposure at its peak.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, with peak levels occurring from March to August. March and April have the highest readings of 9 and 10 respectively, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, where burn time is as low as 15 minutes. The risk escalates in May and June to an extreme level, reaching a maximum UV Index of 13 that demands protection within just 10 minutes of exposure. July and August continue with similarly high levels, while UV radiation begins to decrease in September and October, signifying a return to high risk with a UV Index of 9 and 7 respectively. November and December see a reduction to moderate levels, with a UV Index of 4 and 3 and a burn time of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant, especially during May to September, taking proper precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize UV exposure during these high-risk months.
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 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Choman | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |