Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Balad, Iraq, is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With a climate classified as BSh, Balad experiences intense sunlight that can lead to higher UV exposure risks, particularly during peak hours. Knowing the UV levels—where it can reach a high of 10 around midday—helps residents and visitors alike take necessary precautions against harmful rays. Stay informed and protect yourself from skin damage by checking the UV Index regularly, especially when planning outdoor activities!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off mild, peaking at 2 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 3, but the real intensity kicks in as the day progresses. At 9:00 AM, the index hits 6, and by 10:00 AM, it soars to a striking 8. The midday sun takes center stage at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, both registering a maximum of 10, indicating significant UV exposure. As the afternoon rolls in, the UV levels begin to decline—slipping to 9 at 1:00 PM, dropping to 7 by 2:00 PM, and further decreasing to 5 by 3:00 PM. A gentle descent continues until evening, as the index settles at 1 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. This gradual ebbing reminds us to take proper precautions during peak hours, especially around midday!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, with ** March to August ** marking the peak risk months for sun exposure. The UV Index rises sharply in March (8) and April (9), transitioning to extreme levels in May and June (11), where only 10 minutes of sun exposure can lead to burns. July and August maintain a very high rating at 10 and 9, respectively, before tapering off in the fall. Notably, October (7) remains high, while November (4) and December (3) see a return to moderate levels. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during high-risk months—especially from March through June—by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting outdoor activities during peak hours to reduce UV 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 |
| Balad | 4 | 5 | 8 | 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 |