Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Okahandja, Namibia is crucial for anyone looking to safeguard their skin health while enjoying the region’s sunny climate. The UV Index provides a clear indicator of the sun's intensity and its potential effects, helping residents and visitors alike prevent sunburn and minimize long-term skin damage. With Okahandja's BWh climate presenting significant UV exposure risks, particularly during midday when levels peak at 7, staying informed about UV levels can make a world of difference. Embrace the sunshine wisely and prioritize your skin's health by monitoring the UV Index regularly!
As the day unfolds, UV Index levels rise dramatically, peaking during the midday hours. Starting from a minimal level of 0 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually climbs to 1 by 8:00 AM and reaches 2 by 9:00 AM. The sun's intensity continues to build, hitting 3 at 10:00 AM and soaring to a robust 7 by noon, where it stays steady through 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index begins to decline, falling to 6 at 2:00 PM, and then gradually decreasing to 5 at 3:00 PM. By late afternoon, the levels diminish further, registering 3 at 4:00 PM, then slipping to 1 by 5:00 PM and maintaining that level until sunset, concluding the day with a return to 0 by 7:00 PM. This hourly UVI data underscores the importance of sun protection during the 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 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
14:00 | 6 | high | 25 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 |