Last updated: June 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Mbuji-Mayi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where tropical climates lead to varying levels of sun exposure. Understanding UV levels is essential not only for preventing sunburn but also for protecting long-term skin health. With peak UV levels reaching a high of 10 in the early afternoon, the city’s climate can pose significant risks if precautions aren’t taken. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely by understanding how to navigate the daily UV Index!
The UV Index shifts dramatically throughout the day, making sunlight safety essential. Early in the morning, from 07:00 to 09:00, the index remains low, peaking at just 3 by 09:00. However, as the day progresses, the intensity of UV rays surges, reaching a powerful 10 at noon, marking the peak exposure time. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with the index dropping to 5 by 15:00 and further diminishing to 1 by 17:00. Finally, as twilight approaches by 19:00, the UV Index plummets to 0. Stay sun-smart by seeking shade and protective clothing during those peak hours!
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 | 7 | high | 25 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, 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 |