Last updated: January 18, 2025
Addis Ababa, the vibrant capital of Ethiopia, experiences a Cwb climate classification characterized by distinct variations in temperature throughout the year. January witnesses a chilly minimum of 0°C (32°F), while the city basks in mild averages around 16°C (61°F) for much of the year. Temperatures peak in April, reaching a maximum of 29°C (85°F), illustrating the city's unique positioning at high altitude in the Ethiopian Highlands. This climatic profile not only shapes the local ecosystem but also influences agricultural patterns and urban planning in this dynamic city.
In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, temperature patterns showcase a notable range throughout the year, influenced largely by its high altitude. The year begins with January's chilly depths of 0°C (32°F) and a modest average of 15°C (59°F), gradually warming as the rainy season approaches. February marks the beginning of a slight warming trend, with temperatures reaching an average of 17°C (62°F). This warming culminates in March and April, where daily highs peak at 29°C (84°F) and 29°C (85°F) respectively, alongside average temperatures that remain constant around 18°C (65°F). As the dry season settles, May to June sustain similar warm conditions, while July and August indicate a seasonal shift with cooler temperatures averaging 15°C (59°F). The year closes with a trend of milder weather, as temperatures dip again in October and November, settling around 3°C to 5°C at minimum but generally stabilizing at an average of 15°C (60°F). This seasonal cycle reflects Addis Ababa's unique climatic characteristics, balancing warmth with a refreshing coolness throughout the year.
Addis Ababa experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with January showcasing a minimum temperature of 0°C (32°F) and April reaching a maximum of 29°C (85°F). For more detailed information, refer to the monthly temperatures in Addis Ababa.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, exhibits a distinct precipitation pattern characterized by a pronounced wet season and a relatively dry climate outside of it. The year begins with minimal rainfall in January, recording a mere 3 mm (0.1 in), followed by a gradual increase throughout February (22 mm, 0.9 in) and March (37 mm, 1.4 in), as the city transitions into its main rainy period. April marks a significant shift, with precipitation escalating to 161 mm (6.3 in) over about 15 days, leading into May, where rainfall peaks at 221 mm (8.7 in) across 16 days.
The heaviest downpours occur between June and August, with July and August alone recording 386 mm (15.2 in) and 407 mm (16.0 in) respectively, each spanning 31 rainy days. As the rainy season begins to wane, September still contributes notable rainfall with 305 mm (12.0 in), while October and November see decreased amounts at 65 mm (2.5 in) and 15 mm (0.6 in), respectively. The year wraps up with December returning to dry conditions, echoing January's minimal totals. This clear delineation between wet and dry periods not only shapes the local ecosystem but also influences agricultural practices in the region.
In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the duration of sunshine presents a compelling seasonal narrative that highlights the interplay between climate and geography. The year kicks off in January with 279 hours of sunlight, gradually climbing to a peak of 349 hours in March, marking the transition from the cooler months into the luminous days of early spring. This upward trend continues into the late spring and early summer as the city enjoys an abundance of sunshine, with April and May delivering 336 hours and 343 hours, respectively. The months leading up to the rainy season remain relatively bright, showcasing Addis Ababa's higher sunlight availability before the cloud cover of the wet season begins to roll in.
As the rainy season commences in June and extends through July and August, total sunshine hours experience a slight decline, calculated at 325, 323, and 326 hours, respectively. While still maintaining a healthy amount of sunlight, these months offer a contrast to early spring. However, as the rainy season wanes, sunshine duration begins to rebound, with October enjoying 341 hours and the year culminating in December with an impressive 342 hours. Notably, March stands out as the sunniest month of the year, while the summer period showcases that even during the rainy months, Addis Ababa continues to receive a significant amount of sunlight, contributing to the city's unique climate profile.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, experiences a consistently high UV Index throughout the year, reflecting its proximity to the equator and high elevation. The UV Index peaks in February and March, reaching a striking value of 15 and 16, respectively, both categorized as extreme exposure risk. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, individuals are urged to take precautionary measures during these months to protect against skin damage. This trend continues into April and May, where the UV Index remains at 16 and 15, ensuring that the sun's intensity remains high as the city transitions from dry to rainy seasons.
The summer months of June and July showcase slightly lower UV Index values of 12 and 15, yet they still indicate extreme exposure levels. Notably, August returns to a peak of 16, emphasizing the persistent need for sun protection. As the year progresses into the fall, the UV Index begins to taper but remains in the extreme category, averaging between 12 and 14 through to December. Although the overall exposure category remains high throughout the year, individuals living in or visiting Addis Ababa should remain vigilant, as even brief sun exposure can result in rapid skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, driven by its equatorial location. The year begins with consistent daylight hours of 11 hours in both January and February, providing a reliable framework for daily activities. As the city moves into March, daylight increases to 12 hours, remaining constant through April, May, and the summer months of June, July, and August. This consistency in daylight during the rainy season can favorably influence local agriculture and community life.
As the year progresses into the fall months, daylight begins to taper back to 11 hours in October, November, and December. Despite this slight decrease, the overall annual variation remains minimal, with daylight hours predominantly hovering around 11 to 12 hours. Such a steady distribution of sunlight throughout the year contributes to a unique balance in Addis Ababa’s climate, enhancing the city’s rhythm of life regardless of the season, and allowing residents to plan their activities with confidence in the predictability of daylight.
Addis Ababa experiences a mild climate characterized by moderate temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the rainy season from June to September. Average daily temperatures range from a low of 0°C (32°F) in January to a high of 29°C (84°F) in March and April, with minimal variation throughout the year. Precipitation peaks in July with 386 mm (15.2 in), while the city enjoys ample sunshine, especially in February and March, boasting up to 349 hours of sunlight. Overall, the climate of Addis Ababa offers a pleasant atmosphere conducive to outdoor activities. For more details, visit Addis Ababa climate.
In conclusion, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, presents a distinctive climatic profile characterized by significant temperature variations, consistent sunshine, high UV indices, and stable daylight hours throughout the year. The city’s Cwb climate fosters a clear demarcation between wet and dry seasons, influencing its ecological framework and agricultural practices. High UV indices and ample sunshine during most months underscore the need for sun protection, while the reliable daylight duration facilitates both daily routines and seasonal planning. Together, these climatic attributes not only shape the environment but also enrich the lives of the residents, offering a unique backdrop for urban life in a highland setting.