Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mbuji-Mayi, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as it plays a significant role in promoting skin health and preventing sunburn. With a tropical Aw climate characterized by intense sun exposure, peak UV levels can soar to 9 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, highlighting the importance of taking protective measures during these hours. By being aware of UV levels, you can safeguard your skin and enjoy the beautiful sunny days in Mbuji-Mayi without compromising your health.
The hourly UV Index reveals a dynamic day of sun exposure. Early morning hours from 07:00 to 09:00 remain gentle, with indices hovering around 1 before the intensity ramps up. By 10:00, it escalates to a moderate 5, reaching its peak at 12:00 and 13:00 with a high UV Index of 9—a crucial time for sun protection! As the afternoon wanes, the index gradually declines, tapering to 5 at 15:00 and down to a mild 1 by 17:00. Finally, the sun gives way to twilight at 19:00, dropping to a UV Index of 0. Enjoy the sunshine wisely!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels in the region exhibit significant seasonal variation, with high-risk months occurring from January to April, where the UV Index consistently reaches 14 to 15, categorizing exposure as extreme and necessitating a burn time of just 10 minutes. The risk remains notable in September through November, with UV values again in the 12 to 13 range, telling residents and visitors to remain vigilant. As summer approaches, the index dips slightly to 10 and 9 in June and July, respectively, marking a very high exposure category but extending burn time to 15 minutes. As a result, it's crucial for individuals to take proactive sun protection measures, such as applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing, particularly during these high-risk months.
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 | 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 |