Last updated: August 1, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Ondangwa, Namibia, where the typical BSh climate offers plenty of sunshine but can also pose significant health risks. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining healthy skin, particularly during peak UV hours when levels can soar to a hazardous 9 in the early afternoon. With Ondangwa's warm climate, it’s important to stay informed and take appropriate precautions to enjoy the sun safely and avoid the long-term effects of UV exposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a cool 0 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 1, signaling the first hints of daytime sun. The intensity quickly escalates, reaching 4 by 10:00 AM and peaking at 9 around 1:00 PM—the ultimate moment to seek shade or apply sunscreen. As the day progresses, we see a slight decline, with values easing back to 6 by 3:00 PM and dwindling to 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, the UV rays retreat as evening settles in, dropping to a gentle 0 by 7:00 PM. Stay sun-smart and enjoy the daylight!
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure presents significant risks, particularly during the high-risk months of January to April and August to November, where the UV Index remains consistently high, peaking at 17 in January, February, and March. The extreme exposure categories, with a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes, underscore the need for vigilance. Even in May to July, while the UV Index dips slightly, it still remains at a very high level, allowing for a burn time of only 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to prioritize sun safety by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, especially during these critical months. Staying informed and prepared will help mitigate the risks associated with seasonal UV changes.
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 |
Rundu UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 15 |
Ondangwa | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
Oshakati UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |