UV Index in Rundu, Namibia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Rundu, Namibia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for ensuring your skin's health and preventing painful sunburns. Understanding the UV levels throughout the day not only helps you plan your outdoor activities but also encourages habits that protect against long-term skin damage. Nestled in a semi-arid climate, Rundu often experiences high UV exposure, particularly from late morning to early afternoon when the index peaks at 8. With this knowledge, you can enjoy the beautiful Namibian sun while keeping your skin safe and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Rundu

Throughout the day, the UV Index showcased a dynamic progression, starting with a max of 0 at 7:00 AM. As the sun climbed higher, it sparked a gradual increase: 1 at 8:00 AM, peaking at 8 during the midday hours of 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. This high intensity underscores the importance of sun protection during these hours. As afternoon rolled in, the index began to taper off, dropping to 5 by 3:00 PM, and finally settling back to 1 by 5:00 PM, culminating in a gentle 0 at 7:00 PM. Such fluctuations remind us that while the sun is a source of life, it also calls for careful consideration in how we protect ourselves from its rays.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	7	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	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Rundu

The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, indicating critical changes in sun exposure risk. From January to April, the UV Index remains extremely high, with values of 17 and 15, leading to a burn time of just 10 minutes. May through August sees a slight decrease, with a very high exposure category (UV Index 8-10) where the burn time extends to 15 minutes. As temperatures begin to cool in September and October, the risk rises back to an extreme level (UV Index 12), again reducing burn time to 10 minutes. November and December maintain this high risk with a UV Index of 15. Visitors and residents should exercise extreme caution, particularly from January to April and during November and December, ensuring adequate sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing while limiting direct sun exposure to reduce the risk of harmful effects.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Rundu, Namibia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Rundu. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Rundu, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Rundu UV Index with Other Namibia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Rundu compares to other major locations across Namibia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Rundu's solar exposure compared to other cities in Namibia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Rundu	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