Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Balad, Iraq, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburns, especially during the intense midday sun. With a BSh climate typified by hot, dry summers, UV levels can soar, peaking at 11 around noon, making it essential to monitor and take protective measures during those peak hours. Staying informed about UV risks empowers residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the potential dangers of excessive sun exposure. Remember, a little awareness can go a long way in safeguarding your skin!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins its ascent, signaling the need for sun protection. Starting at a mild 2 at 07:00, it climbs steadily, reaching 3 by 08:00. The real intensity kicks in by 09:00, peaking at a striking 11 by noon. This is the moment when overexposure can become a concern, urging everyone to slather on that sunscreen. For the rest of the afternoon, the UV Index remains high until 15:00, when it gradually declines, settling back to a safe 2 by 17:00. As daylight wanes, the risks diminish with the index dropping to a mere 1 by 19:00. It’s a vivid reminder of the sun's power—choose your outdoor activities wisely!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | 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 |