Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Derkar, Iraq, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by long, hot summers, residents face significant UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index can soar to a staggering 12—underlining the importance of sun safety. Understanding UV levels not only helps protect your skin from harmful rays, but it also empowers you to enjoy outdoor activities more safely. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you can take proactive measures to shield yourself and your loved ones from potential damage.
The UV Index data reveals a notable progression in sun exposure throughout the day. Starting at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, it quickly escalates, peaking at a striking 12 by noon, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually recedes, dropping to 9 at 2:00 PM and further decreasing to 1 by 7:00 PM. This pattern suggests that the sun’s intensity is at its most dangerous during the late morning and early afternoon, emphasizing the importance of sunscreen and protective measures during these critical hours. Stay safe under the sun!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so too does the UV Index, reflecting variations in sun exposure risk. From January to February, the UV Index remains in the moderate category, with a burn time of 30 minutes. However, March and April see a significant increase, with indices reaching 8 and 9, classified as very high, reducing burn time to just 15 minutes. The most critical months for UV exposure are May through July, where peak levels soar to an extreme 11 to 12, necessitating careful attention as burn time drops to 10 minutes. Even in August and September, the UV remains very high, with a steady 9 during early fall, while October sees a return to less intense levels at 7. As winter approaches, November and December reflect a return to moderate UV exposure, with burn times back up to 30 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures—such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses—especially during the high-risk months of March through September, to mitigate the adverse effects of sun 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 |
| Derkar | 4 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |