Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Oshakati, Namibia, where the sun's rays can be particularly harsh. With the region's BSh climate, UV levels can soar to a maximum of 10 around midday, underscoring the importance of awareness in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. By staying informed about daily UV exposure risks, you can take proactive measures to enjoy the sunny days in Oshakati while safeguarding your skin against potential damage. Don't let the sun's intensity take you by surprise—know the index, take action, and stay safe under the Namibian sun!
The UV Index starts the day at a comfortable 0 at 07:00, with minimal risk for sun exposure. However, as the sun rises higher, the index gradually increases to 1 at 08:00 and reaches 2 by 09:00. The day truly heats up by 10:00, peaking at a whopping 10 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating very high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. Fortunately, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 9 at 14:00 and gradually descending to 4 by 16:00. As daylight fades, the UV Index falls to a mere 1 at 18:00 before returning to 0 by 19:00, marking the end of another sun-drenched day. Be sure to take precautions 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
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 |
| Oshakati | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |