Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Tshikapa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, staying aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin health and preventing sunburns. With the region's Aw climate, characterized by a distinct dry and wet season, UV exposure can vary significantly throughout the year. Typically, UV levels rise sharply between mid-morning and afternoon, peaking at 9 around 1 PM, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to understand when to seek shade or apply sunscreen. Being informed about UV levels not only helps in safeguarding against acute sun damage but also plays a vital role in long-term skin health.
The UV Index tells a compelling story throughout the day, showcasing how sun intensity evolves. Early morning hours, from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, maintain a gentle level, peaking at 2. However, as the clock strikes 10:00 AM, the index swiftly climbs to 4, signaling a shift. The sun's rays become increasingly potent, hitting their stride between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the UV Index skyrockets to a striking 9 at 1:00 PM—a clear alert for sun safety. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to recede, dropping to 5 by 3:00 PM and tapering off to 1 by 6:00 PM. By 7:00 PM, the UV rays retreat almost entirely, resting at 0. This dynamic daily pattern serves as a reminder to be sun-smart, especially 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 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 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, UV levels experience significant seasonal changes, with the highest UV Index recorded from January to April, where the UV Index ranges from 14 to 15, indicating an extreme exposure category and a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. The months of September and October also present high risks with a UV Index of 12, categorized as extreme. Conversely, in the summer months of June, July, and August, the UV Index drops to 9, categorized as very high, but still allowing for a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, especially during January through April and September through October. Wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours can help minimize damage.
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 |
| Tshikapa | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 |
| 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 |