Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Okakarara, Namibia, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding the daily levels of UV exposure is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health, especially in a region known for its hot semi-arid climate (BSh). During peak hours, particularly from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the UV Index can reach as high as 8, signaling a significant risk for skin damage. Staying informed can help you take proactive measures, ensuring your time outdoors is both enjoyable and safe.
As the sun rises and the day unfolds, the UV Index climbs steadily, peaking at 8 between 1 PM and 2 PM—a clear signal to take precautions against sun exposure. Beginning the morning at a low 0 at 7 AM, it nudges up to 1 by 8 AM. By 10 AM, UV levels reach 4, and the midday sun brings the index to 7 at noon. It's during these hours that being sun-smart is essential, as unprotected skin can burn quickly. As the afternoon rolls in, a gradual decline sets in; the index drops to 5 at 3 PM, continues down to 2 by 4 PM, and finally settles at 1 as the sun sets. By 7 PM, the UV Index returns to 0, signaling a retreat of the sun's harmful intensity. Stay vigilant during peak hours to protect your skin and enjoy the sunny day!
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, with the most extreme levels occurring from January to April, where the index remains consistently high at 17-14. During these months, the effective burn time is as little as 10 minutes, categorizing them as high-risk periods for UV exposure. May to August sees a slight decrease, with the UV Index ranging from 9 to 10 and a burn time of 15 minutes, but the risk remains categorized as very high. Notably, September to December presents a return to extreme levels with indices between 13-17, maintaining the 10-minute burn time. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures year-round during these high-risk months, such as wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade to minimize harmful 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 |
| Rundu UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 15 |
| Okakarara | 17 | 17 | 14 | 13 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| Oshakati UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |