Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Ongwediva, Namibia, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and promoting overall health. With the climate classified as BSh, residents and visitors alike are exposed to varying UV levels, particularly during peak hours when the index can reach as high as 9—indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By being aware of these UV levels, you can take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply going for a stroll, staying informed about the UV Index helps ensure your time under the sun is both enjoyable and safe.
The UV Index steadily climbs throughout the morning, beginning at a low of 0 at 07:00. By 08:00, it reaches 1, and as the sun rises higher, it escalates to 4 by 10:00. The peak is observed at 13:00 with a robust 9, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually decreases, falling to 5 at 15:00, and tapering off to 1 by 17:00. Finally, the UV Index drops back to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of a sun-intensive day. Remember to protect your skin, especially 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, demonstrating particularly high levels from January to March, where it reaches extreme levels of 17. As we transition into the spring and summer months, the index gradually decreases, hitting a very high level of 10 in May before stabilizing around 9 in June and July. However, August sees a rise back to 11, followed by another spike in September and October, where the index returns to extreme levels. Notably, high-risk months for UV exposure are primarily from January to March and again in August, September, and October, with many months maintaining dangerous levels throughout the year. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to protect themselves from harmful UV radiation by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak hours when burn times can be as short as 10 minutes.
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 |
| Ongwediva | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| Oshakati UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |