Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Gelemso, Ethiopia, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. By being aware of UV levels, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and reduce the long-term effects of sun exposure, such as skin cancer. With Gelemso's BSh climate, characterized by dry conditions and ample sunshine, it's essential to recognize peak UV periods—particularly from late morning to early afternoon—when the index can soar to levels as high as 12. Stay informed and protect your skin to enjoy the beautiful Ethiopian sun safely!
The UV Index starts off low at 1 around 07:00, gradually rising to a moderate 2 by 08:00. As the sun reaches its peak, the index sharply escalates, hitting 8 at 10:00 and peaking at a striking 12 between 12:00 and 13:00. This intense solar exposure signals a strong need for protection, especially with the index maintaining an elevated 11 at 11:00 before beginning a gradual decline. By 14:00, it drops to 9, then further down to 6 at 15:00, and continues to fall, reaching 1 by 17:00. As the evening approaches, the UV levels taper off to 0 by 19:00, indicating a complete cessation of harmful UV exposure. Stay savvy and prioritize sun safety 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains extremely high, with peak values occurring from February to April, where it reaches a maximum of 16. This indicates that January to April are critical months for sun exposure, each with a burn time of just 10 minutes—making these the highest risk months for UV-related skin damage. Although the UV Index slightly decreases after April, it remains high (averaging 12 to 15) through the summer months of June to August. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF, donning protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible to mitigate 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 |
Gelemso | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 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 |