Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Al 'Awjah, Iraq, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health from harmful sun exposure. With a hot semi-arid climate (BSh), residents experience significant UV radiation levels, especially from late morning to early afternoon. Recognizing these levels helps in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. On peak days, UV Index values can soar to 10 around noon, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Stay informed and safeguard your skin by keeping an eye on the UV Index!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady ascent, starting at a modest 2 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 4, signaling the start of a more intense day. The index peaks at a striking 10 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating the highest levels of ultraviolet radiation and highlighting the need for sun protection. As the afternoon unfolds, the UVI gradually declines from 9 at 1:00 PM to 5 by 3:00 PM, before retreating to a low of 1 by 5:00 PM and remaining stable through the evening. This hourly progression not only reflects the sun's power but also serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and protect your skin during the peak hours of exposure.
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk of harmful exposure occurring during the spring and summer months. The high-risk months are from April to September, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 10 in May and June, categorizing these periods as very high. For outdoor activities during these months, it's crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen, particularly between noon and 4 PM when the sun is most intense. As we transition into October, the UV Index decreases, signaling a somewhat lower risk, which continues through the winter months. However, in January and February, UV levels remain in the moderate range, reminding everyone to remain vigilant year-round.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al 'Awjah | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| 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 |
| Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |