Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Lukolela, Democratic Republic of the Congo, as it plays a pivotal role in safeguarding skin health and preventing sunburn. With the region's tropical climate, UV levels can soar, peaking at 10 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, highlighting the importance of sun safety during those hours. Being aware of daily UV exposure can empower locals and visitors alike to take proactive measures, minimizing their risk of skin damage while enjoying the abundant sunshine this beautiful area has to offer. Remember, knowledge is your best defense against harmful UV rays!
From sunrise to sunset, the UV Index tells a compelling story of the day's sun. Starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00, the UV levels gradually rise, peaking at an intense 10 by 11:00 and 12:00. This signifies a critical window for sun safety, as exposure during these hours demands caution. Just after noon, the index begins to decline, slipping to 9 at 13:00 and further down to 6 by 14:00. As the evening approaches, the numbers diminish swiftly to 4 at 15:00, and finally taper off to a relaxing 1 by 17:00, with complete relief from UV exposure by 19:00 when it hits 0. It's clear that being sun-smart is essential especially during the midday peak!
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV exposure levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with January to May and September to December presenting extreme UV Index values, peaking at 14 in March and April. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from January to May and September to October, where burn times are a mere 10 minutes. This shifts to very high levels in June, July, and August, where burn time increases slightly to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions especially during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and adhering to recommended limits of sun exposure to reduce the risk of 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 |
Lukolela | 13 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 |
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 |