Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of As Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, where the sun can be both a source of warmth and a risk to skin health. As the UV levels can soar—peaking at 11 around noon—it's essential to be aware of the potential for sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers, the need for effective sun protection becomes even more pressing. By monitoring the UV Index, locals can take proactive steps to safeguard their skin and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely. Stay informed and prioritize your health!
At sunrise, the UV Index starts gently at 2 at 7:00 AM, but as the morning progresses, it steadily climbs, peaking at a scorching 11 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. This midday high indicates a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, highlighting the importance of sun safety during these hours. After 1:00 PM, the UV levels begin to taper off, dropping to 8 at 2:00 PM and further declining to 6 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index significantly diminishes, falling to 2 at 5:00 PM and settling at 1 by the evening. Be sure to protect your skin when the sun is at its strongest!
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
During the year, the UV Index experiences notable fluctuations, with particularly high-risk months identified from March to August. The UV Index peaks in May and June at 12, categorized as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with a high SPF, and seeking shade whenever possible. The risk diminishes in the fall and winter, with December seeing a relatively lower UV Index of 3. Overall, awareness of UV levels can help mitigate the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage throughout the year.
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 |
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 |
As Sulaymaniyah | 4 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
Basrah UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 4 |