UV Index in Arba Minch, Ethiopia

Last updated: August 1, 2025

In Arba Minch, Ethiopia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels can help you prevent sunburns and reduce the long-term risks of skin damage, especially in this Aw climate zone, where intense sunlight is the norm. With UV Index values soaring as high as 14 around midday, it's essential to take precautions to enjoy the sunny days safely. Stay informed and take proactive steps to shield yourself from harmful UV rays while enjoying everything this beautiful region has to offer.

Hourly UV Index in Arba Minch

The UV Index experiences a dramatic rise throughout the morning, starting at a low of 1 at 07:00. As the sun climbs higher, it peaks at a striking 14 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this zenith, the index begins its gradual decline, dropping to 8 by 15:00, then to 2 at 17:00, and finally settling back to 0 by 19:00. With such fluctuations, it's essential to stay protected during peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00, when the sun's rays are at their most potent.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	15	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Arba Minch

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Arba Minch, Ethiopia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Arba Minch. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Arba Minch, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Arba Minch UV Index with Other Ethiopia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Arba Minch compares to other major locations across Ethiopia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Arba Minch's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ethiopia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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