Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Okahandja, Namibia, is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it provides essential insights into the sun's intensity and its potential effects on skin health. With UV levels peaking in the midday hours, awareness helps in taking necessary precautions to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. The semi-arid climate of Okahandja, characterized by its warm temperatures and abundant sunshine, elevates the risk of overexposure to UV rays. By staying informed about the daily UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors while safeguarding your skin health.
The UV Index (UVI) for the day reveals a significant rise in solar intensity as the morning progresses. Starting at 0 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs, reaching 1 by 08:00. It picks up momentum, hitting 4 by 10:00, and peaking at a striking 9 between 13:00 and 14:00 - the highest point of the day. As the afternoon wanes, there’s a notable decline, with the UVI dropping to 5 at 15:00, and then gently tapering off to 1 by 17:00. By 19:00, the sun's effect diminishes to 0, making the day's UV radiation a clear reminder to stay protected 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 | 7 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with January through April presenting extreme UV Index values (16 to 12) and burn times as low as 10 minutes, highlighting these months as high-risk periods. The risk remains considerable in September to November, where UV levels are again classified as extreme (14 to 15), emphasizing the need for caution during these months. In contrast, May and August experience very high UV levels, with slightly increased burn times of 15 minutes. June and July present a slight reprieve with high levels and burn times of 25 minutes. It is advisable for both visitors and residents to take proactive measures during the high-risk months of January to April, as well as September to November, by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen to minimize UV exposure.
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 |
Okahandja | 16 | 17 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 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 |