Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Outjo, Namibia is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health against the sun's harmful rays. With a warm BSh climate, residents and visitors alike need to be aware of the varying UV levels throughout the day—especially as they soar to a maximum of 8 around midday. Being informed about these levels not only aids in preventing sunburn but also plays a significant role in maintaining long-term skin health. Given the high UV exposure risks typical of this region, taking proactive measures to protect yourself can make all the difference in enjoying the beautiful Namibian sun safely.
At 07:00, the UV index starts at a refreshing 0, indicating minimal sun exposure. As the day progresses, the index climbs steadily, reaching 1 by 08:00 and 2 by 09:00. The sun's intensity peaks at 13:00, hitting a high of 8, which signals the best time for sun protection. By 12:00, it reaches 7, making it crucial to stay shaded or wear sunscreen. The levels gradually decline after the peak, dropping to 5 by 15:00, then tapering off to 3 at 16:00. The evening hours bring relief, with the UV index falling back to 1 by 17:00, and finally returning to 0 at 19:00, marking the end of the sun's UV influence for the day. Remember to take care during 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 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, UV levels experience significant fluctuations, with the highest risks observed from January through April, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels (16-17) and a burn time of just 10 minutes. During this period, visitors and residents should take extra precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade. As we transition into late spring and summer, May to August still presents very high UV Index levels (8-9), where a burn time increases slightly to 15 minutes. The risk remains considerable, so maintaining sun safety is essential. As autumn approaches in September and October, the UV Index rises again to extreme levels (13-14), necessitating continued vigilance. In November and December, the UV Index remains high (15-16), reinforcing the need for sun protection throughout the year.
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 |
| Outjo | 16 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 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 |