Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Kipushi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for maintaining optimal skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding UV levels can significantly influence your outdoor activities, as higher indices indicate increased risks of skin damage. With Kipushi's Cwa climate, characterized by both pronounced wet and dry seasons, locals and visitors alike face varying UV exposure risks, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when the UV Index peaks at an intense 10. Protecting yourself during these crucial hours can help ensure enjoyable and safe outdoor experiences.
The UV Index throughout the day presents a compelling narrative of sun exposure, peaking at a staggering 10 at 12:00 PM, indicating a need for caution. As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs from 1 at 7:00 AM to a notable 4 by 9:00 AM. The ascent continues, reaching 9 by 11:00 AM, before hitting its maximum at noon. However, as the afternoon progresses, the intensity wanes, with readings dropping to 7 by 2:00 PM and eventually falling to 1 by 5:00 PM. As twilight approaches, the Index dips to 0 after 6:00 PM, promising safe evening conditions. Engaging with the sun requires awareness; ensure you're protected during those peak hours!
| 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 | 9 | 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variation, remaining consistently high throughout the year, particularly during the winter months when it peaks at 16-17 in January through March. These months are considered high-risk for sun exposure, with an extreme exposure category and a burn time of only 10 minutes. As we transition into spring and summer, the index slightly decreases, with June and July marked as very high (UV Index of 10) but still warrants caution. By late summer and into fall, the UV levels remain elevated, ranging from 11 in August to 12 in September and October, all within the extreme category with short burn times. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours, especially during these high-risk months. Staying informed and vigilant about UV exposure can help prevent skin damage and promote overall health.
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 |
| 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 |
| Kipushi | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 16 |