UV Index in Windhoek, Namibia

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Windhoek, Namibia, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With sunlight reflecting off the arid environment and high UV levels peaking at 7 during midday, awareness of UV exposure is essential for preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. Windhoek's semi-arid climate means residents and visitors alike face significant sun exposure, particularly between late morning and early afternoon. Keeping an eye on the UV Index not only helps you enjoy the beautiful Namibian sun safely but also promotes better skin health for all.

Hourly UV Index in Windhoek

The UV Index throughout the day presents an intriguing pattern of intensity. Starting off at 0 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually rises, reaching a modest 1 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the UV levels escalate, peaking at a robust 7 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM—marking the most intense exposure period of the day. A gentle decline follows, with the index at 6 at 2:00 PM, then dropping to 4 by 3:00 PM. By the late afternoon, UV levels taper off to 2 at 4:00 PM, before settling at 1 by 5:00 PM and fading to 0 as twilight approaches at 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun safety during midday hours, when UV exposure is at its highest.

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:000low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:002low45 min
10:003moderate30 min
11:005moderate30 min
12:007high25 min
13:007high25 min
14:006high25 min
15:004moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Windhoek

Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with the highest values occurring in the winter months of January (16) and February (17), characterized by an extreme exposure category and a burn time of just 10 minutes. The risk remains elevated through March (14), April (12), and September (12), indicating that October (14) and November (15) also carry extreme risk. May (9) marks a slight decrease to very high exposure, while June (7) and July (7) stabilize at a high risk level, allowing for a longer burn time of 25 minutes. August (10) returns to very high before the gradual decline in UV exposure heading into autumn. Given this data, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions against sun exposure, especially during the high-risk months of winter and early fall. Wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours are strongly advised to mitigate potential skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Windhoek, Namibia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Windhoek. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec171714129771012141516
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Windhoek, 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 Windhoek UV Index with Other Namibia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Windhoek 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.
Windhoek's solar exposure compared to other cities in Namibia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Swakopmund UVI14141211866811121314
Walvis Bay UVI14141211866811121314
Windhoek161714129771012141516
Rundu UVI1717151310881012121515
Oshakati UVI1717161310991113141516