Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Mariental, Namibia. This knowledge not only helps in preventing sunburn but also plays a vital role in maintaining long-term skin health. With its semi-arid climate classified as BWh, Mariental experiences high UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the UV Index peaks at 8 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. Being aware of these levels helps you make informed decisions about sun protection, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience in this vibrant region.
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, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal changes, with particularly high risks from January to April and again in September to November. These months fall into the extreme exposure category, with a consistent burn time of just 10 minutes. February tops the list with a UV Index of 17, highlighting its high risk. From May to August, the UV Index decreases slightly, transitioning to the very high and high categories, where burn times extend to 15-25 minutes. Visitors and residents should exercise utmost caution during high-risk months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently, especially during midday hours when UV rays are the strongest. Awareness and preparation are key to enjoying the outdoors safely!
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 |
Mariental | 16 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 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 |