Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Mweka, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the risk of harmful UV exposure can significantly impact skin health. With the region's Aw climate, Mweka experiences high UV levels, especially during peak hours—from 10 AM to 2 PM when the index can reach a severe 13. By being aware of the UV index, you can take essential precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring both safety and enjoyment while soaking up the sun's rays in this vibrant locale.
The hourly UV Index paints a vivid picture of the sun's intensity throughout the day. Morning hours start with a gentle rise, peaking at 8 by 10:00 AM. As the clock strikes 11:00 AM, the index climbs to a robust 11, reaching its zenith of 13 at noon and continuing at that level until 1:00 PM. Early afternoon maintains a strong presence with readings of 10 at 2:00 PM, before a gradual decline begins. By 3:00 PM, it dips to 7, and as the day winds down, the UV Index decreases significantly to 3 at 4:00 PM, then falls sharply back to 1 by 5:00 PM, where it remains until the day closes with a 0 by 7:00 PM. If you’re planning outdoor activities, the most intense sun exposure is clearly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, making those hours the ones to seek shade or apply sunscreen for protection.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 |