Last updated: June 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents of Zawitah, Iraq, where the sun's intensity can pose significant health risks. Understanding UV levels helps individuals take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and protect long-term skin health, particularly during the peak hours when the UV Index hits a maximum of 12 around noon. With a Csa climate, Zawitah experiences hot summers and relatively mild winters, leading to heightened UV exposure, especially in the warmer months. By staying informed about UV Index readings, you can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.
Starting from early morning, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking dramatically at 12 around noon. From 07:00, when it starts at a mild 2, it climbs steadily, reaching 4 by 08:00 and hitting 7 by 09:00. The intensity of UV radiation escalates significantly, reaching 9 at 10:00 and soaring to its zenith of 11 by 11:00. The sun’s rays are most potent at 12:00, with the index peaking at 12—a reminder to prioritize sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, dropping to 9 at 14:00, then to 7 by 15:00, and continuing its descent to 4 at 16:00. Finally, the evening brings relief as the UV Index falls to 2 at 17:00, and by sunset, it settles at a mere 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. This daily UV cycle highlights the importance of sun safety, especially during those peak hours!
| 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant fluctuations, with high-risk months occurring primarily from March to September. During this period, especially in May through July, the UV Index reaches a peak of 12, categorized as extreme, indicating a burn time of only 10 minutes for unprotected skin. March and April also pose risks with indices of 9, tagged as very high, while August and September remain elevated at 10 and 9 respectively. The low-risk months of November and December show a decrease in UV exposure, dropping to 4 and 3, where exposure is classified as moderate. It is crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during the high UV periods, including wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade, particularly during peak sunlight hours.
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 |
| Zawitah | 4 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |