Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Tshela, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the climate is characterized by its tropical warmth. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 9 during midday, being aware of these readings can play a vital role in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. As the sun's rays intensify throughout the day, it’s essential for the community to recognize the risks associated with prolonged exposure and to take appropriate precautions. By staying informed about the UV Index, Tshela's residents can enjoy the outdoors while safeguarding their skin against harmful effects.
The UV Index today showcases a dramatic rise in solar intensity as the day progresses. Beginning with a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index gradually ascends to reach a peak of 9 by noon, marking the sun's intensity at its strongest. From there, it starts to taper off, dropping to 6 by 2:00 PM and further declining to 1 as the evening approaches. For anyone venturing outdoors, the window between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM demands attention, as the UV levels are at their most intense and protective measures are highly recommended. As the sun sets, the index returns to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling a reassuring end to the day’s exposure.
| 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 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | 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 exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest levels recorded from January to April, where it consistently reaches 14 and falls within the extreme exposure category, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes. May sees a slight decrease to 12, still categorized as extreme, while June to August mark a transition to very high levels, with UV Index values of 9 to 10 and an increased burn time of 15 minutes. As the year progresses, September and October return to extreme levels of 11 and 13, respectively, with November and December maintaining the 13 index. Visitors and residents should take precautions, especially during the high-risk months of January through April and September through November, which require vigilant sun safety measures, including wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kinshasa UVI | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 |
| Masina UVI | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Tshela | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 |
| Kisangani UVI | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 |
| Mbuji-Mayi UVI | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 |
| Lubumbashi UVI | 16 | 17 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 16 |