Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Tuz Khurmatu, Iraq, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin during the sunny months. Understanding the varying levels of UV radiation can help prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential for residents and visitors alike. With a BSh climate characterized by hot summers, Tuz Khurmatu experiences significant UV exposure, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the index peaks at an intense 11. Staying informed about UV levels ensures that you can enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin’s health, allowing you to take the right precautions during those sun-soaked days.
The UV Index data reveals a clear pattern in solar exposure throughout the day. Morning rays begin gently, with a maximum of 2 at 07:00, steadily rising to 4 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index peaks at an impressive 11 at 12:00, indicating a moment of intense UV radiation. Temperatures remain elevated with a 10 at 11:00 and 13:00, before gradually declining to 8 by 14:00. The afternoon light softens, dropping to 6 by 15:00, then continues to retreat as the sun sets—falling to 3 at 16:00, 2 at 17:00, and reaching 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. This data underscores the importance of protecting your skin during the peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00, when the UV Index is at its highest.
| 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 | 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do the UV Index levels, reflecting varying risks for sun exposure. January and February start with a moderate UV Index of 4-5, allowing for 30 minutes of sun exposure without significant risk. As we move into March, the index climbs to 7 (high), reducing burn time to 25 minutes. April and May showcase peak danger, with an index of 9 (very high) and 11 (extreme) respectively, where 15-10 minutes of exposure can lead to burns. This extreme risk persists through June and July. August sees a slight decrease to 10, and September drops to 9, both still categorized as very high risk. By October, the index falls to 7 (high), with burn time increasing to 25 minutes, and it continues to drop into the moderate range by November and December. **Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of April to September by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of 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 |
| Erbil UVI | 4 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Tuz Khurmatu | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 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 |