Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for the residents of Al Faw, Iraq, where the hot and dry BWh climate often means increased sun exposure. As you bask in the sun, keeping track of UV levels can be crucial for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. With daily UV readings reaching a maximum of 10 around midday, it's important to stay informed and take protective measures when necessary. By understanding the UV risks associated with your surroundings, you're empowered to enjoy the outdoors safely while reducing the potential for skin damage.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise, peaking at 10 around noon which indicates a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the index escalates swiftly, starting from a mere 1 at 07:00 to reach a significant 9 by 11:00. From 12:00 to 13:00, the UV index remains relentless at 10, urging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. Thankfully, the intensity begins to taper off in the afternoon, dipping back to 5 by 16:00, and settling into a safer 1 by the evening hours at 18:00 and 19:00. Overall, it’s essential to prioritize sun safety, especially during those peak hours when the UV Index is at its highest!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Seasonal UV changes vary significantly throughout the year, with the highest risk occurring from March to June. During this period, the UV Index peaks at 11, indicating an extreme exposure category, where the burn time can be as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions from April to May, when the risk is particularly severe. As summer progresses into fall, the UV Index gradually decreases, with October returning to a high exposure level of 7. It's important for everyone to be mindful of UV exposure, especially on sunny days, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade when necessary, particularly during the high-risk months of March to June.
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 |
| Al Faw | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |