UV Index in Khanaqin, Iraq

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Khanaqin, Iraq is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. With the region's BSh climate, sunlight can be intense, particularly during the midday hours when UV levels soar, peaking at 12 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Being aware of these levels is crucial for preventing sunburn and reducing long-term skin damage. As daily UV exposure varies significantly throughout the day, staying informed can help you enjoy the sunshine safely while minimizing risks associated with higher UV radiation.

Hourly UV Index in Khanaqin

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady ascent, starting at a mild 2 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a notable 7, signaling the need for sun protection. The peak occurs at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where it hits a maximum of 12, indicating dangerously high levels of UV radiation. After this midday zenith, the index gradually declines, dropping to 6 by 3:00 PM and further to 1 by 5:00 PM, ultimately reaching 0 at sunset. This hourly progression emphasizes the importance of vigilance against UV exposure, particularly during the late morning to early afternoon when the risk is at its highest.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	10	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Khanaqin

The UV Index exhibits notable seasonal variation, peaking from March to August, where values reach their highest at 12 in May and remain within the extreme category. The high-risk months for UV exposure are March through July, with burn times decreasing to as little as 10 minutes during this period. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours, particularly when the UV Index is categorized as very high or extreme. From October to February, while the UV Index decreases significantly, it remains prudent to maintain sun safety practices during outdoor activities, especially in the dwindling winter sun.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Khanaqin, Iraq

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Khanaqin. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Khanaqin, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Khanaqin UV Index with Other Iraq Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Khanaqin compares to other major locations across Iraq. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Khanaqin's solar exposure compared to other cities in Iraq. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Khanaqin	4	5	8	9	12	11	11	10	9	7	5	3
Basrah UVI	5	7	9	10	11	11	10	9	8	7	5	4