UV Index in Axum, Ethiopia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Axum, Ethiopia, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With sunburn risk increasing significantly during peak hours, being aware of UV levels can help you take necessary precautions to prevent damage. The climate in Axum falls under the BSh zone, characterized by high UV exposure, especially from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the index often reaches critical levels of 11 and 12. By staying informed, residents and visitors can enjoy the sunny weather while safeguarding their skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Axum

The UV Index today presents a notable ascent as the sun reaches its zenith. Starting from a modest 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs to 2 by 08:00. The real surge begins by 09:00, where it hits 5, and peaks at a striking 12 between 12:00 and 13:00. This intense period signals a vital awareness for sun protection! As the day progresses, the index drops steadily, descending to 10 at 14:00 before tapering off to 7 at 15:00, and dwindling down to 1 by 18:00 and flatlining at 0 by 19:00. Be mindful of peak hours for sun exposure, especially during the late morning to early afternoon when UV intensity is at its highest!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:002low45 min
09:005moderate30 min
10:008very high15 min
11:0011extreme10 min
12:0012extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:004moderate30 min
17:002low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Axum

The UV Index in this region reveals significant seasonal variation, with consistently extreme levels throughout most of the year. From January to May, the index peaks at 15, posing a high risk for sunburn with an exposure time of just 10 minutes. June through August sees slightly reduced indices, fluctuating between 12 and 14, but the burn time remains the same. By September to November, the index begins to taper off slightly, culminating in a very high index of 10 in December, allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. The high-risk months particularly include March, April, and May, which require visitors and residents to take essential precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen frequently, to avoid harmful UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Axum, Ethiopia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Axum. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121315151412131412121110
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Axum, 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 Axum UV Index with Other Ethiopia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Axum 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.
Axum's solar exposure compared to other cities in Ethiopia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Axum121315151512131412121110
Mek'ele UVI121415151512131413131110
Bahir Dar UVI121415151412141513121110
Dire Dawa UVI131415151412141514121211
Nazret UVI131515161412141514131211
Addis Ababa UVI131516161512151614141312