Last updated: June 2, 2025
In the picturesque coastal town of Swakopmund, Namibia, being aware of the UV Index is essential for both residents and visitors. Understanding UV levels is crucial for sunburn prevention and overall skin health, especially in a region where biomechanical factors can lead to increased sun exposure. Swakopmund's BWk climate features warm temperatures, significantly elevating your risk of UV radiation during midday hours. With UV Index levels rising to 6 around noon, it's vital to protect your skin and enjoy the sun safely while exploring this beautiful seaside destination.
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a cozy 0, with the sun gently rising. By 8:00 AM, it barely nudges up to 1, signaling a calm morning. As the day unfolds, the UV radiation intensifies; by 10:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 3. The peak of the day occurs between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, where the index soars to a robust 6, urging everyone to embrace sun safety measures. After this midday pinnacle, the index begins its descent: 5 at 2:00 PM, 4 at 3:00 PM, and gradually falls to 2 by 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index winds down, returning to 1 by 6:00 PM and finally settling back at 0 after sunset, marking the end of a UV-rich day. Remember to stay protected during those 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 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 |