Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Umm Qasr, Iraq, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health. Understanding the UV levels can help you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially during peak exposure times when UV levels soar to a maximum of 11 around midday. With a BWh climate that often features clear skies and intense sunlight, the risks of overexposure are high, making awareness of UV levels essential for everyone. Equip yourself with the knowledge to enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal city.
The UV Index (UVI) exhibits a notable pattern throughout the day. Starting at 2 at 7:00 AM, it gradually rises, peaking at 11 by noon and 1:00 PM. This high level of UV exposure indicates that sun protection is essential during these hours. As the afternoon progresses, the UVI begins to dip, dropping to 7 by 2:00 PM and then declining further to 5 by 3:00 PM. By late afternoon, the sunlight's intensity reduces significantly, with the UVI falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and remaining minimal through 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of taking precautions during peak hours while enjoying the outdoors.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | 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 | 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 |
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 |
| Umm Qasr | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 4 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |