UV Index in Otavi, Namibia

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Otavi, Namibia, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health against the sun's harmful rays. With UV levels peaking at a significant 8 during midday, understanding these fluctuations can help you take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Otavi's semi-arid climate brings warm temperatures and high sun exposure, making it essential to be aware of UV risks, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Equip yourself with knowledge and enjoy the sun safely!

Hourly UV Index in Otavi

The UV Index reveals a dynamic daily pattern, starting from a minimum of 0 at 7:00 AM. As the sun rises, the index slowly climbs, reaching 1 at 8:00 AM and 2 at 9:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, it spikes to a moderate 4, indicating the need for some sun protection. The day's peak arrives at 1:00 PM, where the UV Index hits an impressive 8, highlighting the importance of staying shaded and applying sunscreen. Following this zenith, the index slowly declines, with values of 7 at 2:00 PM and 5 at 3:00 PM, before tapering off to 3 at 4:00 PM. The evening hours bring a return to lower levels, dropping to 1 by 5:00 PM and settling back to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe end to sun exposure for the day.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	3	moderate	30 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Otavi

The UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, with extreme levels persisting from January to April and again in September to November, indicating a high risk of harmful sun exposure during these months. Notably, January and February reach their peak UV Index of 16-17, translating to a burn time of just 10 minutes. As we transition into May through August, the UV Index drops to very high levels (between 8 and 10), allowing for slightly longer burn times of 15 minutes. As summer ends in September, the UV Index spikes back to 13, maintaining the extreme classification through October. Given the high UV exposure during these periods, it is essential for visitors and residents to adopt protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to minimize skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Otavi, Namibia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Otavi. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Otavi, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Otavi UV Index with Other Namibia Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Otavi compares to other major locations across Namibia. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Otavi's solar exposure compared to other cities in Namibia. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Otavi	16	17	14	13	9	8	8	10	13	13	15	16
Oshakati UVI	17	17	16	13	10	9	9	11	13	14	15	16