Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Nahiyat `Atbah, Iraq, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health from harmful ultraviolet radiation. With the region's BWh climate characterized by hot, dry conditions, residents and visitors alike face significant risks from UV exposure, especially during peak hours. By being aware of daily UV levels, you can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and promote long-term skin health. Typical UV values soar in the late morning and early afternoon, reaching a maximum of 11 around noon, highlighting the importance of planning outdoor activities accordingly.
The UV Index for the day showcased a dramatic rise in sun intensity, starting at a mild 2 at 07:00 and peaking at an impressive 11 by 12:00. As the sun reached its zenith, the UV levels climbed swiftly, highlighting the need for sun protection. The index slightly declined throughout the afternoon, settling at 5 by 15:00 and tapering off to 1 by 17:00. As dusk approached, the UV index dropped to 0 by 19:00, signaling a retreat from the sun's strong rays. With the highest values occurring midday, it's essential for sun-seekers to take precautions during those peak hours to safeguard their skin.
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 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, seasonal UV changes reveal significant fluctuations in sun exposure levels. From January to March, the UV Index rises sharply, reaching a peak of 12 in May, signaling extreme levels of solar radiation and a reduced burn time of just 10 minutes. The highest-risk months for skin damage are March to August, particularly April and May, when the Index hits 10 and 12, respectively. As summer transitions into autumn, UV levels gradually decrease, but even in October, the Index remains at 7, marking it as a high-risk month. For the safety of both visitors and residents, it is crucial to adhere to sun safety practices during these peak months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to mitigate the risk of harmful UV exposure.
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 |
| Nahiyat `Atbah | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |