Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Debre Birhan, Ethiopia is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With a Cwb climate characterized by high-altitude sun exposure, the UV levels in Debre Birhan can spike dramatically, peaking at a staggering UV Index of 15 around midday. This exposes residents and visitors alike to increased risks of skin damage, making it essential to stay informed about daily UV levels. By recognizing these trends, you can take essential precautions to enjoy the beautiful Ethiopian sunlight while protecting your skin from potential harm.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index paints a vivid picture of sun intensity. Starting with a mild 1 at 07:00, the sun quickly ramps up its rays, reaching 3 by 08:00. The intensity picks up significantly as it soars to 6 at 09:00, and then reaches its peak at 12:00 with a blistering 15. The highest point occurs at 11:00 with a staggering 13, warning us to cover up or seek shade. The afternoon sees a gentle decline, dropping to 8 by 15:00, before easing down to 2 at 17:00. As the sun sets, the UV Index retreats to a comfortable 0 by 19:00. It’s a day that highlights the power of the sun, reminding us to stay protected during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels persisting throughout most of the year. From January to March, the index peaks at 16, indicating particularly high-risk months. April and August maintain this peak, while the index remains critical at 15 in February, May, and July. September and October witness a slight decline to 14 and 13, respectively, yet still pose considerable risk. It's essential for both visitors and residents to exercise caution and take preventive measures year-round, especially during these high-risk months, to protect against harmful UV exposure. Remember to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure during peak hours to stay safe.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mek'ele UVI | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
| Bahir Dar UVI | 12 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
| Dire Dawa UVI | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 11 |
| Nazret UVI | 13 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
| Debre Birhan | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 |
| Addis Ababa UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |