Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Gamboma, Congo, as it plays a crucial role in protecting skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's tropical Aw climate, where the sun can be particularly intense, awareness of UV levels is vital for enjoying outdoor activities safely. Most notably, Gamboma experiences its peak UV exposure around midday, with indices soaring to 9 during the high sun hours. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can effectively plan your day, apply sunscreen, and take the necessary precautions to safeguard your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.
The UV index throughout the day exhibits a dynamic rise and fall, reflecting the sun's intensity. At 07:00, the index starts low at 1, gradually climbing to 2 by 08:00. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 4, but excitement peaks at 12:00 with a striking 9, indicating a high risk for unprotected skin. The intensity tapers down after this noon pinnacle—falling to 8 at 13:00, then 6 at 14:00. As afternoon turns to evening, the index diminishes significantly, settling at 4 by 15:00, dropping to 2 at 16:00, and finally winding down to 1 by 17:00. As the sun sets, the index recedes completely, hitting 0 by 18:00, leaving a tranquil end to the day. Remember, during peak times, sun protection is crucial!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal variability, with high-risk months spanning from January through April, where the index peaks at 14 and remains within the extreme exposure category, leading to a burn time of just 10 minutes. August and September also present elevated risk, with UV indices of 11 and 12 respectively. Visitors and residents should exercise caution during these months, wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and limiting sun exposure to minimize the risk of UV-related harm. In contrast, June and July exhibit slightly lower indices of 10 and 9, categorized as very high, allowing for a 15-minute burn time but still necessitating sun safety measures. As we transition into the latter part of the year, the UV Index remains a concern, particularly in October and November, reinforcing the need for ongoing vigilance to protect skin health year-round.
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 |
| 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 |
| Gamboma | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 |
| Dolisie UVI | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 |