Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Basrah, Iraq, where the sun shines brightly under its BWh climate, bringing significant risks of UV exposure. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 10 during midday, awareness of these solar radiation fluctuations can be vital for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. Given Basrah's typical climate, where sunny days are abundant, keeping track of the UV Index not only helps safeguard against immediate discomfort but also against serious skin conditions over time. Make informed choices to stay safe while enjoying the sunshine!
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 | 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 | 10 | 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 | 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 |
| Basrah | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |