Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Madingou, Congo, awareness of the UV Index is essential for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. With temperatures soaring and the sun’s intensity peaking at a UV Index level of 9 around noon, understanding these levels is crucial for residents and visitors alike. This Aw climate region presents unique challenges, making it vital to protect yourself from harmful UV radiation, particularly during those hours when exposure is highest. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin's well-being.
The UV Index today tells a compelling story of sun exposure throughout the day. Starting low at 1 by 07:00, it gradually climbs to a moderate 3 by 09:00. As the day progresses, the intensity peaks impressively at 9 around 12:00, signaling that the sun is at its most powerful. The afternoon remains vibrant but begins to taper off as we see a drop to 4 by 15:00. Post-sunset, the UV Index plummets to 0 between 18:00 and 19:00, indicating a retreat from harmful rays. It’s a day where staying sun-smart is crucial during the midday hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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 recorded during the winter and early spring months. From January to April, the UV Index consistently peaks at 14, categorized as extreme, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. Subsequently, there is a slight drop in May to 12, but still classified as extreme. The summer months see a moderate decrease; in June and July, the UV Index remains at 9, described as very high, with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. The fall months bring another increase, with September to November returning to an extreme level at 13. Overall, the high-risk months for UV exposure primarily fall between January and April, with particular caution advised from September to November as well. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to take protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially during these peak periods to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brazzaville UVI | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 |
| Pointe-Noire UVI | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
| Madingou | 14 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
| Kayes UVI | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
| Owando UVI | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
| Dolisie UVI | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 |