Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Bukama, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the sun’s intensity can reach alarming levels, particularly during midday. With peak UV levels soaring to 10 at noon, increased awareness is vital for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. Bukama's Aw climate means sunny days are the norm, posing heightened risks for unprotected skin during the high UV index hours. By staying informed about daily UV fluctuations, you can take proactive steps to enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting your long-term skin health.
The hourly UV Index reveals a dynamic range of sun exposure today. Starting off at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs, peaking at a striking 10 by 12:00 PM—the peak exposure time. As the sun reaches its zenith, caution is advised for outdoor activities during the 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM window when the index remains high at 9 and 10. Following this midday surge, the index gracefully descends; by 3:00 PM, it dips to 4 and continues to decline to 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, after a brief respite, the UV rays fade to 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe return for evening outdoor plans. Stay sun-smart and enjoy the day wisely!
| 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index displays significant variations, with the highest levels observed from January to April, where it consistently reaches 15, categorizing exposure as extreme and necessitating a burn time of only 10 minutes. May marks a slight decrease to an index of 12, but conditions remain extreme. The summer months of June and July see a reduction in the index to 10 and 9, respectively, categorized as very high, with a burn time extended to 15 minutes. In August and September, the UV Index climbs back to 11, returning to the extreme category, while in October, November, and December, it stabilizes at 12 and 14, still in the extreme range. Given these high UV levels, particularly during winter and early spring, it is crucial for visitors and residents to take protective measures against UV radiation, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours.
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 |
| Bukama | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 |
| Lubumbashi UVI | 16 | 17 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 16 |