Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Bishoftu, Ethiopia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. As UV levels can soar to a staggering 14 around midday, being aware of these fluctuations helps in preventing painful sunburns and longer-term skin damage. With a Cwb climate, characterized by mild temperatures and high solar exposure, residents and visitors must recognize the risks associated with UV radiation, especially during peak hours. Stay informed and protect yourself to enjoy the beautiful Ethiopian outdoors safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. The intensity ramps up quickly, hitting 2 by 08:00 and surging to a moderate 5 by 09:00. However, as midday approaches, watch out! The index skyrockets to a peak of 14 between 12:00 and 13:00, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this zenith, the UV Index gradually descends, dropping to 11 at 14:00, and then easing to 4 by 16:00. Finally, the index dwindles to 1 by 17:00 and fades to 0 by 19:00, marking a day where sun safety is crucial during those brightest 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 | 12 | 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 |
The UV Index reveals significant seasonal changes, with the highest readings occurring from February to April, peaking at 16, indicating an extreme exposure category and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Months like March and April are particularly high-risk for UV exposure, posing a serious threat to skin health for both visitors and residents. While UV levels decrease slightly in June and remain high through August, they remain in the extreme category, suggesting continuous vigilance is essential. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen during high UV days, especially from February to April, to mitigate harm from intense sunlight.
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 |
Bishoftu | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
Addis Ababa UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |