Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Adis `Alem, Ethiopia, where elevated UV levels can pose significant risks to skin health. With a climate classified as Cwb, this area experiences high UV radiation, particularly during midday hours when the index soars to 14—a level that can lead to sunburn in just minutes. By being aware of the UV Index, you can take essential precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from damaging sun exposure. Embracing this knowledge helps promote not only immediate safety but also long-term skin health, empowering the community to enjoy the sunny climate responsibly.
The UV Index today tells a compelling story of increasing intensity from morning to afternoon. Beginning with a modest reading of 1 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily, reaching 2 at 08:00 and jumping to 5 by 09:00. The real peak hits at 12:00, where it soars to a striking 14, indicating the sun’s rays are at their strongest, calling for sun safety measures. This intensity remains high at 13:00, before starting to gradually decline—dropping to 11 at 14:00 and tapering off further to 4 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the levels decrease to 2 at 17:00 and back to 1 by 18:00, finally settling at a relaxing 0 by 19:00. This day presents an ideal opportunity for sun enthusiasts to bask in the light while ensuring they protect their skin during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits notably high levels throughout the year, with extreme exposure categories from January to June and again in August and September. Specifically, April and August are the peak months, featuring a maximum UV Index of 16, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Conversely, while UV levels drop towards the end of the year, they remain significant, with December recording an index of 11. Given these conditions, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to prioritize sun safety during these high-risk months. Wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) are essential recommendations to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
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 |
| Adis `Alem | 13 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
| Addis Ababa UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |