Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Mbanza Kongo, Angola, as it plays a significant role in promoting skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region’s Aw climate, characterized by warm temperatures and ample sunshine, awareness of UV levels throughout the day helps individuals take proactive measures against harmful effects. For instance, during peak hours, particularly between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to as high as 12, placing residents at increased risk for skin damage. By staying informed, the community can enjoy the sunshine safely and protect their well-being.
At dawn, the UV Index starts off low at 1 at 07:00, but as the sun rises, so does the intensity of UV radiation. By 09:00, it reaches 5, climbing rapidly to a peak of 12 at 12:00. The midday sun is fierce, with the UV Index hitting its maximum of 11 at 11:00 and slightly dropping to 8 by 14:00. As the afternoon progresses, the index declines steadily, returning to a more moderate 5 at 15:00, then tapering off to 2 by 16:00. The day concludes with a safe 1 at 17:00 and fades to 0 from 18:00 onwards, indicating a reprieve from UV exposure. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year, with the highest levels reported from January to April, where the index peaks at 15 in March and consistently stays in the extreme category. This trend persists into September, October, and November, where the UV Index remains at 13-14, indicating extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The high-risk months are thus identified as January through April and September through November, necessitating caution for both visitors and residents. It’s crucial for individuals to protect their skin with appropriate clothing and sunscreen, regardless of the month, especially during times of peak UV radiation. Use protective measures wisely, as burn times can be as short as 10 minutes during peak season.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Luanda UVI | 14 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 |
Benguela UVI | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 |
Lobito UVI | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 14 |
N'dalatando UVI | 15 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 14 |
Mbanza Kongo | 14 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 |
Huambo UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 16 | 16 |