Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for the residents of Basrah, Iraq, given the region's BWh climate characterized by intense sunlight and elevated UV exposure. Awareness of UV levels can significantly enhance sunburn prevention and overall skin health, helping to avoid the long-term consequences of overexposure. During the hottest parts of the day, particularly between 10 AM and 1 PM when the UV Index peaks at a striking 11, it's crucial for locals to take protective measures, ensuring safe and enjoyable time outdoors while minimizing risks associated with sun damage.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a dramatic rise in sun intensity, peaking during the late morning to early afternoon. Starting the day at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 11 by 11:00 AM and maintaining that level until 1:00 PM. This signifies a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following this peak, the index begins to dip, dropping to 8 by 2:00 PM, and continuing its decline until it falls to 0 by 7:00 PM. With this information, it's crucial to take sun safety precautions—especially during the hours 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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, 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 |
| Basrah | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |