Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Yirga `Alem, Ethiopia, understanding the UV Index is vital for safeguarding your skin and health. With peak UV levels soaring to 14 in the early afternoon, awareness of UV exposure helps prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. The region's Aw climate significantly enhances the risk of UV radiation, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. By recognizing these levels, you can enjoy the beautiful Ethiopian sun while taking the necessary precautions to protect your skin.
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.
| 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high in this region, with values categorized as extreme. January through April sees particularly elevated levels at 16, indicating the highest risk months for UV exposure. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during these months, as the burn time is only 10 minutes across all months. From May to October, the UV Index slightly fluctuates, ranging from 14 to 15, but remains in the extreme category as well. Even in the cooler months of November and December, the UV Index stays high at 12. Therefore, it is imperative for everyone to wear appropriate sun protection—such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing—year-round, especially during peak UV months. Staying informed about daily UV levels will help mitigate the risks associated with sun exposure.
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 |
| Yirga `Alem | 13 | 16 | 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 |