Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Al Hillah, Iraq, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health from the sun's harmful rays. With intense exposure levels typical in this BWh climate, knowing the UV Index helps you plan your day effectively to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. As the UV readings peak at 10 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, being aware of these levels can guide you on when to seek shade, apply sunscreen, and take necessary precautions to enjoy the sunshine safely. Stay informed and stay protected!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a moderate 2 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it ramps up to 4, prompting early risers to take note. The peak intensity hits between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, soaring to a significant 10, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dipping to 8 at 2:00 PM, before retreating to 6 by 3:00 PM. Afterward, the UV levels continue to wane, falling to 3 at 4:00 PM and settling at a safe 0 by 7:00 PM. It's a reminder that while midday sunshine is inviting, protective measures are essential during 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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, the UV Index experiences significant changes, with peak levels typically occurring in the late spring and summer months. From May, where the index reaches a critical 12 (extreme exposure category) with a burn time of just 10 minutes, the UV levels remain high to very high until August. The months of March, April, June, and July also pose high-risk for sun exposure, with UV indices ranging from 8 to 10, indicating very high levels. Visitors and residents should particularly exercise caution during May through August, taking protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, and minimizing sun exposure during peak hours. As the year progresses into late autumn and winter, the UV index drops to moderate levels, but it's still wise to remain vigilant, especially in sunny conditions.
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 Hillah | 4 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |