Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Hoachanas, Namibia, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. As a region characterized by its arid BWh climate, Hoachanas experiences high UV levels, particularly during midday hours when readings peak at 8—a level suggesting that unprotected skin can suffer from sunburn in as little as 15 minutes. Being aware of these UV levels is essential for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. By monitoring the UV Index, individuals can take appropriate precautions to enjoy the sunny climate safely.
At dawn, the UV Index starts at a cool 0 at 07:00, indicating minimal sun exposure risk. As the day unfolds, it slowly rises, reaching 1 by 08:00 and climbing to 2 by 09:00. The sun gains strength, peaking at 8 from 12:00 to 13:00—be sure to wear sunscreen during these hours! A gradual decline follows, with the index dropping to 7 at 14:00, then tapering off to 5 by 15:00. By late afternoon, the UV Index decreases further, sinking to 3 at 16:00, before returning to 1 by 17:00 and settling back at 0 as night falls at 19:00. This hourly trend underscores the importance of protecting your skin when the sun is at its zenith!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, peaking in the winter months and fluctuating through the spring and summer. January to April consistently demonstrate extreme UV exposure, with a maximum index of 17 in February, necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes. As the months progress to May and August, the index drops to 8 and 9 respectively, classified as very high, allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. However, September through December returns to extreme levels with indices as high as 16 in both January and December. High-risk months for UV exposure include February, September, October, and November, making it crucial for visitors and residents alike to take precautions during these periods. It is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen frequently, and seek shade to mitigate the risks associated with intense UV radiation exposure.
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 |
| Hoachanas | 16 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 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 |