Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Henties Bay, Namibia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health in this sun-soaked coastal paradise. With a climate classified as BWh, residents and visitors are exposed to varying UV levels, peaking around midday when the risk of sunburn is highest. Knowing the UV Index helps in making informed decisions about outdoor activities, ensuring you take necessary precautions against harmful ultraviolet radiation. With daily highs reaching a UV Index of 7 during the summer months, staying aware of these levels can significantly contribute to your long-term skin health and prevent painful sunburns. Remember, the sun's rays can be intense in Henties Bay, making awareness your best ally in enjoying the great outdoors safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts low at 0 at 7:00 AM, encouraging morning strolls in the shade. By 8:00 AM, it ticks up to 1, signifying a gentle start to the day. The intensity climbs steadily, hitting 3 by 10:00 AM and peaking at 7 by 1:00 PM, urging sun-seekers to take necessary precautions. A slight decline follows as the afternoon wanes, with the index dropping to 5 at 3:00 PM and 3 by 4:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV Index returns to a mild 1 by 5:00 PM and finally drops back to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling the end of another sunlit day. It's a perfect reminder to stay protected during peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations, with the highest values recorded during the winter months and early spring. January, February, March, and April all fall into the extreme exposure category (UV Index 16-13), with a burn time of just 10 minutes, highlighting these as high-risk months for sun exposure. As spring transitions into summer, the UV Index decreases slightly, with values of 9 in May and August (categorized as very high) and a burn time of 15 minutes, while June and July maintain a high category at UV Index 7 and 25 minutes burn time. As summer ends, the risk escalates again in September and October, returning to the extreme level. For residents and visitors, this underscores the importance of sun protection year-round, especially during high-risk months: apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swakopmund UVI | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| Walvis Bay UVI | 14 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| Henties Bay | 16 | 16 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Windhoek UVI | 16 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| Rundu UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 15 |
| Oshakati UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |