Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Imam Qasim, Iraq, understanding the UV Index is crucial for promoting skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the region's arid climate and high exposure to sunlight. With peak UV levels reaching up to 10 around midday, residents and visitors alike must stay informed to protect themselves against harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Awareness of these levels not only aids in safeguarding your skin from damage but also helps in making informed choices about outdoor activities. As the sun scorches through the skies, recognizing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make all the difference in your well-being.
As the sun rises at 07:00, the UV Index begins at a modest 2, providing a gentle start to the day. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, signaling increasing solar intensity. The real heat sets in around 09:00, with a significant jump to 6. At 10:00, the index peaks dramatically to 8, and by 11:00 and 12:00, it reaches its maximum of 10, indicating an urgent need for sun protection. The UV Index begins its gradual descent after 13:00, sliding to 9 and then 8 by 14:00. As afternoon progresses, the intensity wanes, dropping to 5 at 15:00. By 16:00, it's down to 3, transitioning to a low 2 by 17:00, and finally fading to 1 at 18:00. As twilight approaches, the UV threat disappears completely, leaving a 0 by 19:00. Overall, it’s vital to be mindful of UV exposure especially during the peak hours of 11:00 to 13:00.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | 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 |
| Imam Qasim | 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 |