Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Ilebo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With a tropical climate typical of the Aw zone, residents and visitors alike are exposed to varying UV radiation levels throughout the day. During peak hours, especially from 10 AM to 1 PM, the UV Index can soar to 13, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of these levels helps you take preventive measures, ensuring you can enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from potential damage.
The UV Index is at its peak during the mid-morning to early afternoon hours, reaching a maximum of 13 at both 11:00 and 12:00, signaling a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day unfolds, 08:00 starts to ramp up with a 4, quickly rising to a 7 by 09:00. The intensity surges further, hitting 11 by 10:00. Following the zenith at 11:00, the index remains elevated at 13 for an hour before gradually declining, sinking to a 4 at 15:00 and lowering to 1 by 17:00. By evening, the UV threat diminishes to 0, making late hours ideal for outdoor activities with minimal sun risk. Remain vigilant during the peak hours of 11:00 to 12:00 to ensure safe sun enjoyment!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences notable seasonal changes, with high-risk months primarily occurring from January to May and then September to November, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels of 13 to 15 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. April stands out as the peak month with a UV Index of 15. In contrast, during June through August, the risk remains high but moderates to a very high category, with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions during these periods by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours, to minimize the risk of harmful 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 |
Ilebo | 14 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 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 |