Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Qushtepe, Iraq, where the sun's rays can be particularly intense due to its Mediterranean climate (Csa). Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburns and promoting overall skin health, making it essential for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday activities alike. In Qushtepe, UV exposure peaks during midday hours, reaching high levels of 11 at noon, underlining the need for vigilant sun protection strategies. Whether you're wandering through the local markets or enjoying time outdoors, knowing the UV Index allows you to take proactive steps to safeguard your skin against harmful effects.
The UV Index during the day reveals a dynamic pattern as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting early at 7:00 AM with a low value of 2, the intensity increases, peaking dramatically at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a maximum of 11—a clear signal for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins its gradual descent, dropping to 8 by 2:00 PM, and further declining to 6 at 3:00 PM. By evening, the UV levels settle down to 4 at 4:00 PM, before winding down to a mild 1 by 6:00 PM. This pattern captivates the importance of being sun-smart during the midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
| 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index clearly indicates seasonal changes in sun exposure risk. March marks the shift into higher UV levels, reaching a high index of 7. This escalates to very high levels of 8 in April and 10-11 from May to July, categorizing these months as high-risk for sunburn, with burn times shrinking to as little as 10 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, UV levels decrease, but September and October still present very high to high risks. Meanwhile, January, February, November, and December see moderate UV levels, with burn times of 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to exercise caution and wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade during peak hours, particularly from March to August when UV exposure can be at its most dangerous.
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 |
| Qushtepe | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 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 |