Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Arba Minch, Ethiopia, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With the region's Aw climate, characterized by abundant sunlight and elevated UV exposure, understanding UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and support overall skin health. During peak hours, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM, the UV Index can reach hazardous levels, with readings soaring as high as 13. By being mindful of the UV Index, residents and visitors can take necessary precautions to enjoy the beautiful Ethiopian outdoors safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts modestly at 1 at 07:00, indicating minimal risk. By 09:00, it climbs to a moderate 5, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions. The peak emerges around 12:00, hitting a noticeably high 13, and remains intense until 14:00 when it slightly dips to 11. As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually decreases; by 15:00, it falls to 7, and as evening approaches, it continues its decline to 2 at 17:00. Finally, the UV Index settles at 1 by 18:00, ultimately dipping to a safe 0 by 19:00. It's a day where midday sun protection is paramount!
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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 shows consistently high levels of solar radiation throughout the year, with extreme exposure categories persisting from January to November. The peak UV months are February and March, both reaching a UV Index of 16, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure in just 10 minutes. Likewise, April through August maintain high indices between 15 and 14, ensuring continued risk. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats, and seeking shade to minimize potential skin damage. As fall approaches, UV levels decrease to 12 in November and 11 in December, still indicating a need for sun safety awareness.
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 |
Arba Minch | 14 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
Addis Ababa UVI | 13 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 |