Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Usakos, Namibia, where the sun’s rays can pose significant risks, especially during the peak hours of midday. Being informed about UV levels matters not only for preventing painful sunburn but also for protecting long-term skin health and reducing the risk of skin cancer. With Usakos situated in a BWh climate zone, consistent exposure to high UV levels, particularly between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM when the index can reach up to 7, emphasizes the importance of taking proactive sun safety measures. Stay aware and safeguard your skin while enjoying the sunny days that Usakos has to offer!
The UV Index throughout the day paints a vivid picture of sun exposure. Starting at a cool 0 at 07:00, the day gradually warms up, reaching 1 by 08:00 and 09:00. The intensity spikes as the sun climbs higher, hitting 3 by 10:00 and soaring to a peak of 7 at both 12:00 and 13:00. This peak signifies a critical window for sun protection. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 6 at 14:00, then tapering off to 4 at 15:00. The evening brings a welcome relief, with values dwindling to 1 by 17:00 and 18:00, and fading to 0 by 19:00. Overall, this data underscores the importance of sun safety measures, particularly during the midday 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |
The UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring from January to April, where it reaches a striking 16, classified as extreme, meaning a burn time of just 10 minutes. February and March maintain this heightened risk, while April sees a slight drop to 12 but remains in the extreme category. As spring transitions into summer, the risk decreases, with May and June exhibiting very high to high levels with burn times increasing to 15-25 minutes. However, September to November sees a resurgence in risk, particularly with 12 in September, 14 in October, and peaking at 15 in November, all maintaining the extreme classification. December equals January’s maximum UV risk of 16. Therefore, whether you’re a visitor or resident, it is crucial to be vigilant about sun protection, particularly during high-risk months from January to April, and again in September through November. Always apply sunscreen generously and seek shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of UV-related harm.
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 |
| Usakos | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 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 |