Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Swakopmund, Namibia, where the BWk climate offers bright, sunny days that can expose individuals to significant UV radiation. Awareness of UV levels is vital for sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health, especially since the index peaks at 8 around midday, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. With Swakopmund's coastal location, even on breezy days, the potential for overexposure remains, making it essential to monitor the UV Index and take necessary precautions to protect your skin while enjoying the outdoors.
The UV Index today exhibits a dynamic progression, starting from a zero level at 07:00, ideal for early risers. As the sun climbs, the index gradually rises, reaching 1 by 08:00 and peaking at a significant 8 around 13:00. This midday surge indicates a pronounced risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, urging sun safety practices like sunscreen and shade. Following this zenith, the levels ease to 7 at 14:00 and then drop steadily throughout the afternoon, landing at 3 by 16:00 and finally returning to 1 by 18:00. As night falls at 19:00, the index dips back to 0, making for a safe window to enjoy the evening outdoors. Remember: stay sun-smart during peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | 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, the UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, particularly peaking in the winter months. From January to March, the UV Index remains at an extreme level of 14, with a burn time of just 10 minutes, posing a high risk for sunburn. This trend continues into April with a slightly lower UV Index of 11 but still categorized as extreme. The risk begins to taper off from May to July, where the index reaches a maximum of 8 (very high) before settling back to 6 (high) in the summer months of June and July, allowing for 25 minutes of burn time. However, the UV risk escalates again from September to November, with values going back to extreme levels (11 to 14) and a burn time of 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months from January to April, as well as in September and November. It is crucial to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and limit sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard against harmful UV rays.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swakopmund | 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 |
| 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 |