UV Index in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 14 during midday, awareness of these fluctuations can help residents and visitors alike protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The city's BSh climate, characterized by its distinctive dry and hot conditions, poses significant UV exposure risks, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM when the sun is at its strongest. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny days of Dire Dawa while minimizing the risk of skin damage.

Hourly UV Index in Dire Dawa

As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its steady climb, starting at a mild 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 3, signaling the need for some caution. The intensity reaches a notable 6 by 9:00 AM, but it’s from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM when the sun truly asserts its power, peaking at a scorching 14 at noon. Fortunately, the index starts to dip slightly, maintaining a robust 10 at 2:00 PM before gradually descending to a 1 by late afternoon. As daylight wanes, the UV Index drops to 0 by 7:00 PM, bringing a welcome relief as the day comes to a close. Stay sun-smart and protect your skin during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	7	high	25 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Dire Dawa

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Dire Dawa, Ethiopia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Dire Dawa. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Dire Dawa, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Dire Dawa UV Index with Other Ethiopia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Dire Dawa compares to other major locations across Ethiopia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Dire Dawa's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ethiopia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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