Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Oshakati, Namibia, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and maintaining overall health. With the region's BSh climate characterized by intense sun exposure, awareness of UV levels can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. As the UV index peaks at 9 around midday, it's essential to take proactive measures to protect yourself from harmful rays. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or simply going about your day, being informed about UV exposure risks in Oshakati can help you enjoy the sunshine safely and protect your skin's health for the long term.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent from 0 at 07:00, indicating a safe start to the day. By 08:00, it inches up to 1, still in the low zone. However, as the morning progresses, the intensity picks up: 09:00 reaches 2, and by 10:00, it escalates to 4, signaling the need for sun protection. The peak is at 13:00, where the UV Index hits an impressive 9, urging everyone to take extra precaution. A slight decline follows, with readings of 8 at 14:00 and 6 at 15:00, as the afternoon sun wane. By 16:00, it drops to 3, rolling towards evening, which sees a gentle tapering off with 2 at 17:00, 1 at 18:00, and back to 0 by 19:00, concluding a day where vigilant sun safety was essential.
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | 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 |