Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Az Zubayr, Iraq, where the BWh climate brings intense sunlight and its accompanying risks. The UV Index provides a vital forecast of ultraviolet radiation levels, alerting you to the potential for sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health issues. With peak UV levels reaching a dangerous 10 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, awareness is key. Protecting your skin during these hours not only enhances your outdoor experience but also supports your overall skin health. Stay informed and safeguard yourself against the sun’s rays in this sun-drenched region!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM, slowly rising to reach a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. The intensity climbs steadily, peaking at 10 by 11:00 AM and remaining at this maximum level until 12:00 PM. As the afternoon approaches, the index begins to decline, dropping to 9 at 1:00 PM, and back to 4 by 3:00 PM. By the time the sun sets, the UV Index decreases significantly to 1 at 5:00 PM and just 0 by 7:00 PM, making the early hours the most crucial for sun protection. Remember, while outdoor activities are enticing, being mindful of the UV levels is essential for skin safety!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels demonstrate significant seasonal changes, with high-risk months identified primarily from March to September. In March, the UV Index reaches 9 (very high), peaking in May and June at 11 (extreme), indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes under optimal conditions. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. As the year progresses, UV levels gradually decrease, with the months of October to December falling into moderate exposure categories, allowing for safer outdoor activities.
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 |
| Az Zubayr | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |