Last updated: August 1, 2025
In the heart of Namibia, Hoachanas experiences a climate that demands awareness of the UV Index. Understanding UV levels is crucial for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health, especially as exposure risks peak during midday hours. With a typical arid climate classified as BWh, Hoachanas can witness UV Index readings soaring to 7, indicating a need for proper sun protection strategies. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding their skin from harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 7 between 1 PM and 2 PM, indicating a substantial risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The day starts off slowly, with a 0 at 7 AM, climbing to a mild 1 by 8 AM. By 11 AM, the index hits 5, urging cautious sunbathing. Anticipate the highest values around noon, when it reaches 6, perfect for seeking shade or applying sunscreen. The afternoon sees a slight decline, dropping to 4 at 3 PM, before settling back down to a meager 1 by 5 PM and fading to 0 once again as the sun sets at 7 PM. Stay vigilant throughout your day; from late morning to early afternoon, it’s all about protecting your skin!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |