Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Mweka, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the tropical climate brings a unique set of sun exposure challenges. With UV levels peaking between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, awareness of these fluctuations can help in preventing sunburn and ensuring long-term skin health. Given the region's typical weather patterns in the Aw climate zone, which include high temperatures and clear skies, recognizing daily UV risks is essential for maintaining safety and well-being under the sun.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index steadily climbs, presenting a dynamic shift from the early morning hours. Starting at a modest 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, the index makes a notable leap to 3 by 09:00. The sun reaches its zenith around 12:00, peaking at an intense 9, where sun protection becomes essential. The afternoon hours show a slight retreat, descending to 5 by 15:00, before tapering off in the late evening. As daylight wanes, the UV Index drops back to 1 by 17:00, eventually reaching 0 just after sunset. This hourly data underscores the importance of being sun-smart during the peak midday hours for optimal skin protection.
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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 9 | 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 |
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 |
Mweka | 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 |