Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Luebo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where sun exposure can vary dramatically throughout the day. With a climate classified as Aw, the risk of UV radiation peaks notably during midday, reaching levels as high as 8—indicating a very high potential for skin damage. Awareness of these UV levels not only aids in preventing sunburns but also supports long-term skin health, allowing individuals to enjoy outdoor activities safely. Keeping an eye on the UV Index is essential for navigating Luebo's sunny days and safeguarding against harmful effects of overexposure.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dynamic pattern, peaking at 8 during the midday hours of 12:00 and 13:00. As the sun rises, values remain low, starting at 1 at 07:00 and climbing gradually to 3 by 09:00. 10:00 marks a significant rise to 5, and as the sun reaches its zenith at 11:00, the index escalates to 7. After hitting the maximum of 8, the UV levels begin to decrease, tapering off to 5 by 15:00 and then dropping to 3 at 16:00. By the evening, the UV Index cools down to 1 by 17:00 and finally falls to 0 after 19:00, indicating a clear transition from high exposure risk to a safer evening environment. Stay sun-safe!
| 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 | 10 | 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 |
During the year, the UV Index varies significantly, with the highest readings occurring from January to May and again in September to November. The months of January, February, March, April, and November showcase extreme UV levels with indices reaching 14 to 15, suggesting a burn time of just 10 minutes, making these crucial high-risk months for sun exposure. In contrast, although June to August indicates a slightly lower UV Index ranging from 8 to 10 (considered very high), individuals should remain vigilant as the burn time increases to 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take protective measures during these high-risk periods, including the application of broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce skin damage and the risk of sunburn.
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 |
| Luebo | 14 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 |
| 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 |