Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Al Mahawil, Iraq is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet radiation, especially in a region characterized by its arid BWh climate. With UV levels peaking at an intense 11 around noon, awareness of daily fluctuations in UV exposure can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. As residents and visitors of this sun-drenched area, recognizing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is vital for maintaining skin health and enjoying the outdoors safely. Don't underestimate the risks—stay informed and protect yourself!
The UV Index data reveals a clear pattern in solar exposure throughout the day. Morning rays begin gently, with a maximum of 2 at 07:00, steadily rising to 4 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index peaks at an impressive 11 at 12:00, indicating a moment of intense UV radiation. Temperatures remain elevated with a 10 at 11:00 and 13:00, before gradually declining to 8 by 14:00. The afternoon light softens, dropping to 6 by 15:00, then continues to retreat as the sun sets—falling to 3 at 16:00, 2 at 17:00, and reaching 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. This data underscores the importance of protecting your skin during the peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00, when the UV Index 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 | 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels vary significantly, indicating changes in sun exposure risk. The high-risk months for ultraviolet radiation are from March to August, where the UV Index reaches very high to extreme levels; notably, May and June peak at an extreme UV Index of 12 and 11, respectively. In these months, the recommended burn time is just 10 minutes, emphasizing the urgent need for adequate sun protection. To ensure safety, visitors and residents should wear sunscreen with a high SPF, seek shade during peak sun hours, and use protective clothing and accessories, especially during the high-risk season. As the year progresses, the UV Index gradually declines, reaching moderate levels again in November and December.
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 Mahawil | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |