Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kamina, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the sun can be both a source of warmth and a risk to skin health. The UV levels here can peak as high as 10 around noon, highlighting the importance of sun protection to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With Kamina’s Aw climate classification, characterized by a mix of wet and dry seasons, it’s vital to stay informed about UV exposure risks, especially during the hottest parts of the day. By being aware of the UV Index, you can enjoy the vibrant sunshine while safeguarding your skin for years to come.
The UV Index for the day reveals a significant fluctuation in intensity, peaking at 10 during the midday hours (12:00 PM and 1:00 PM), indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Early risers will find the sun’s rays quite mild at 1 and 2 between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. However, as the morning progresses, the UV intensity surges to 7 by 10:00 AM and reaches its zenith with a strong 9 at 11:00 AM. After the peak, the levels gradually decline, dropping to 5 by 3:00 PM, and diminishing to 1 by 5:00 PM, with the evening bringing a return to safety as it falls to 0 by 7:00 PM. Remember to protect your skin during the peak hours, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index remains consistently high, with extreme levels observed from January to April and again in August to November. Notably, February to April maintain an extreme UV Index of 15, necessitating immediate protective measures, as the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. As we transition into late spring and summer, the UV Index slightly dips, peaking at 12 in May and 10 in June, but maintains a very high exposure category, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. July sees a slight decrease to 9, yet remains a high-risk month. Residents and visitors should exercise caution, especially during high-risk months like January through April and August through November, ensuring to apply sunscreen frequently, wear protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible to minimize UV exposure.
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 |
| Kamina | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
| Lubumbashi UVI | 16 | 17 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 16 |