Last updated: August 1, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is essential for residents of Ash Sharqat, Iraq, especially in a climate like ours, classified as BSh, characterized by a mix of warmth and dryness. Understanding UV levels is crucial not only for preventing sunburn but also for maintaining overall skin health. With peak UV Index readings reaching up to 10 around midday, it’s vital to take precautions to mitigate the risks associated with high UV exposure. By staying informed and knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen, you can enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from long-term damage.
From 07:00 to 19:00, the UV Index exhibited a dynamic pattern, peaking at 10 around 11:00 to 13:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure during these hours. The morning began with a mild index of 2 at 07:00, gradually rising to 3 by 08:00. A noticeable surge occurred between 09:00 and 10:00, climbing to 6 and then reaching a striking 8. As the sun reached its zenith, the UV Index sustained its intensity, maintaining 10 for three consecutive hours. By the late afternoon, the index began to taper off, dropping to 6 at 15:00, further declining to 2 by 17:00 and finishing the day with a gentle 1 by 19:00. It's a stark reminder of the sun’s power, urging everyone to take precautions during peak hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 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 |
As the seasons change, so do the UV levels, significantly impacting sun exposure safety for visitors and residents alike. January and February start the year with a moderate UV Index of 3 and 5, allowing for 30 minutes of burn time. However, starting March, the UV Index escalates to high levels, peaking in May and June with an extreme level of 11, where burn time drops to just 10 minutes. The risk remains elevated into the summer months, with July and August maintaining a very high UV Index, requiring vigilant sun protection. September and October see a gradual decrease but still hold high levels in October at 7. The year ends with a return to moderate levels in November and December. Visitors and residents should be especially cautious and take protective measures during the high-risk months of March through October, particularly in May and June, when exposure can lead to burns in as little as 10 minutes. Regular use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade are strongly advised during these times.
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 |
| Ash Sharqat | 3 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 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 |