Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Rehoboth, Namibia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the city situated in a BWh climate zone, residents and visitors alike often find themselves exposed to high UV levels, especially during the midday hours. As the UV Index can reach a maximum of 7 around noon, it's essential to be aware of these levels to protect yourself from harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Regularly checking the UV Index not only helps in planning outdoor activities but also empowers you to take proactive measures against sun damage, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience under the Namibian sun.
The UV Index throughout the day paints a clear picture of solar intensity, beginning with a gentle 0 at 7 AM and rising steadily as the morning unfolds. By 10 AM, it climbs to a moderate 3, and at 11 AM, it hits 5, signaling the need for some sun protection. The sun reaches its apex at 12 PM and 1 PM, with a peak UV Index of 7, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases, dipping back to 5 by 3 PM, and falling further to 1 by 5 PM. By 7 PM, the UV Index returns to 0, marking a safe end to the sun-filled day. Remember to stay sun-safe during those peak hours!
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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, there are significant seasonal variations in UV Index levels. The highest risk months are from January to April, where the UV Index remains at an extreme level (between 12 and 17) with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This risk persists again in September, October, and November. Meanwhile, May and August represent a very high exposure category with slightly extended burn times of 15 minutes, while June and July exhibit high UV levels with a burn time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during peak months—from January to April and again in late summer and fall—by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly to reduce the risk of skin damage.
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 |
Windhoek UVI | 16 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
Rehoboth | 16 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 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 |