Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Kofele, Ethiopia, where the climate is characterized as Cwb—a temperate highland climate. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. With peak UV Index levels reaching as high as 15 around midday, it's essential to take precautions, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the risk of skin damage is greatest. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can better protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in this vibrant region.
The UV Index for the day tells a compelling story of sun intensity. Starting off with a maximum of 1 at 07:00, the day gradually heats up, reaching 2 by 08:00. However, from 09:00, the UV Index climbs significantly, hitting 5 before peaking dramatically at 15 by noon—the time when sunblock is a must! The intensity remains high at 15 for the next hour, then gradually declines to 12 at 14:00. As the afternoon wane, the index dips down to 8 at 15:00, before falling to 4 at 16:00 and a cool 2 by 17:00. By evening, the sun's rays diminish to 1 at 18:00, and finally fading to 0 by 19:00. It’s a day that emphasizes the importance of sun safety during peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index reveals extreme exposure levels, particularly from January through April, with values peaking at 17 in April. The high-risk months are clearly February, March, and April, when the UV Index consistently remains at or above 16, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Even as we move into the summer months, although the index slightly dips, it remains concerning at 13 to 16. Therefore, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen liberally, and seeking shade during peak hours, regardless of the season. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate and cause skin damage, so stay vigilant 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 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 |
Addis Ababa UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |
Kofele | 14 | 16 | 16 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 13 | 12 |