UV Index in Mek'ele, Ethiopia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Mek'ele, Ethiopia, especially considering its Cwa climate that brings intense sunlight year-round. Knowing the UV levels can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and safeguard skin health, allowing individuals to enjoy the outdoors without compromising their well-being. With peak UV Index levels reaching as high as 13 around midday, awareness of these risks is vital to protect yourself from harmful rays while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Mek'ele. Stay informed and prioritize your skin’s safety!

Hourly UV Index in Mek'ele

As the day unfolds, the UV Index rises steadily, reaching its peak between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM with a remarkable index of 13. The sun's intensity starts to build from 8:00 AM with a value of 2, rapidly climbing to 8 by 10:00 AM. From 11:00 AM, the heat peaks at 12, only to slightly wane to 11 by 2:00 PM. Gradually, the UV Index declines, dropping to 8 at 3:00 PM, and then diminishing further to 4 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the index returns to a more manageable level, resting at 2 by 5:00 PM and finally settling at 0 after 7:00 PM. Stay protected during the midday sun, when UV levels soar!

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	8	very high	15 min
11:00	12	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	13	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	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 Mek'ele

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with extremely high levels persisting from January to May and continuing through August. The peak UV Index of 15 occurs from March to May, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, where the advised burn time is just 10 minutes. From June to November, the index remains critical, ranging between 10 to 14, while December offers a slight reprieve at 10, but is still categorized as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these high-risk months, particularly from March through August, by wearing sunblock, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the chances of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Mek'ele, Ethiopia

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Mek'ele 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.

Mek'ele'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	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
Addis Ababa UVI	13	15	16	16	15	12	15	16	14	14	13	12