UV Index in Hawassa, Ethiopia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Hawassa, Ethiopia, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and promoting overall health. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 14 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations can help you take necessary precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage. Hawassa, characterized by its temperate climate, still faces significant UV exposure risks, particularly during the sunniest hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you empower yourself to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Hawassa

The UV Index displays a dramatic rise throughout the morning and peaks at 14 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, marking the highest intensity of the day. Beginning with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the intensity escalates quickly, reaching 12 by 11:00 AM and encouraging sun safety measures. After hitting its zenith, the index begins to decline, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM before easing further to 2 by 5:00 PM and finally settling at 0 by 7:00 PM. This fluctuation underscores the importance of protecting your skin during peak hours, particularly between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the sun's rays can be most harmful.

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	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	12	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Hawassa

Throughout the year, the UV Index consistently indicates extreme exposure levels, with burn times remaining constant at 10 minutes across all months. The highest UV indexes are recorded from February to March, reaching up to 16, making these months particularly high-risk for sunburn and skin damage. Visitors and residents alike should take precautions during these months with protective clothing, sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure, especially during peak hours. Even in the cooler months, with UV indexes still at 12 to 14, it's essential to remain vigilant and protect your skin, as the risk of harmful UV exposure persists year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Hawassa, Ethiopia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Hawassa. 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 Hawassa, 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 Hawassa UV Index with Other Ethiopia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Hawassa 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.

Hawassa'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
Hawassa	14	15	16	16	14	13	14	15	15	13	12	12
Addis Ababa UVI	13	15	16	16	15	12	15	16	14	14	13	12