Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With powerful sun exposure typically peaking during midday, the UV levels can reach a dangerous index of 14, greatly increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Knowing these levels can help residents and visitors alike take proactive steps in sun protection—ensuring enjoyable outdoor experiences while minimizing health risks. Given Dire Dawa's BSh climate, characterized by hot temperatures and intense sunlight, awareness of the UV Index is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing the harmful effects of solar radiation. Stay informed and stay safe!
The UV Index offers a clear glimpse into the sun's intensity throughout the day, peaking dramatically around noon. At 07:00, the index starts at a gentle 1, but by 08:00, it rises to 3, indicating that the sun's rays are beginning to strengthen. As the morning progresses, the UV Index climbs steadily, hitting 6 by 09:00 and then surging to a striking 9 at 10:00. The midday sun reaches its zenith at 12:00 and 13:00, with an alarming 14, signaling a critical time for outdoor activities without proper protection. As the afternoon wanes, the index tapers off, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and continuing to decline to 4 by 16:00. By 17:00, it plummets to 1, and as evening approaches, it gently falls to 0 by 19:00. This data underscores the importance of sun safety 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high in the region, peaking at 15 during March and August. This translates to an extreme exposure category with a crucial burn time of just 10 minutes, underscoring the importance of taking precautions. The months of February, March, April, August, and September are especially critical, with UV indices frequently at their maximum. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun protection during these high-risk months, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible, especially during peak sunlight hours. By being vigilant about UV exposure, everyone can safely enjoy the outdoors year-round.
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 | 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 |
| Addis Ababa UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |