Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mosul, Iraq, where the sunny climate in the BSh zone can lead to significant UV exposure risks. Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health, particularly during peak hours when the index hits alarming heights, such as 11 around noon. With maximum UV ratings soaring during the warm months, it's essential to arm yourself with knowledge to enjoy the sun safely and protect your skin from potential damage in this historic city.
The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking pattern of sun exposure. Starting at 7:00 AM, the index registers a modest 2, gradually rising to 3 at 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the index surges to 6 by 9:00 AM and peaks impressively at 11:00 AM with a notable 10. The zenith of solar intensity occurs at 12:00 PM, reaching a high of 11—a clear reminder of the sun’s strength. The afternoon sees a slight decline, with values at 10 at 1:00 PM and dropping to 9 by 2:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index dips to 6 at 3:00 PM, further decreasing to 4 at 4:00 PM. By 5:00 PM, it sinks to 2 and finally settles at a low of 1 by 6:00 PM, marking the end of a day filled with fluctuating UV exposure.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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 |
The UV Index demonstrates a notable progression through the year, with high-risk months occurring from March to August when levels reach high to extreme. The most intense UV exposure is seen in May, June, and July, maintaining a peak index of 11, which corresponds to a burn time of only 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen with a high SPF. In contrast, the UV Index decreases in the fall and winter months, with January, November, and December showing a moderate exposure level (UV Index 3-5), allowing for longer burn times of 30 minutes. It’s essential to remain vigilant, especially during late spring and summer, to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mosul | 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 |