Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Assab, Eritrea, where the sun shines brightly in a hot desert climate (BWh). Monitoring UV levels not only helps in protecting against painful sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. With the UV Index peaking at 10 around noon, it's essential to be vigilant during the hottest hours to minimize risks of skin damage and heat-related illnesses. Stay informed, take precautions, and enjoy the beautiful Eritrean sun safely!
The UV Index throughout the day follows an illuminating path, beginning with a gentle maximum of 1 at 7:00 AM. As the sun rises higher, the index climbs steadily, reaching a comfortable 2 by 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it hits 4, but the real intensity begins at 10:00 AM when it surges to 7. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, both clocking in at a strong 10, urging sun seekers to adopt protective measures. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, dipping to 8 at 2:00 PM, then to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the sun begins its descent, the index falls further to 3 at 4:00 PM, before retreating back to 1 by 5:00 PM, and finally settling at 0 by 7:00 PM, marking the end of a day under the sun's potent rays.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences notable seasonal changes, peaking at 13 in April and May, indicating an extreme exposure category where burn time is just 10 minutes. February through May are particularly high-risk months, with UV levels remaining at 11 or 12, hence residents and visitors should exercise increased caution. Although June to October sees a slight reduction to a very high UV Index of 10, the recommended burn time remains a mere 15 minutes. As such, it's crucial for everyone to adopt protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially from February to May.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Massawa UVI | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 8 |
Assab | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 8 |
Keren UVI | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 9 |
Mendefera UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
Asmara UVI | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 |