Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Bandundu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, awareness of the UV Index is vital for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially given the region's Aw climate, which brings significant sun exposure throughout the year. During peak hours, particularly from 10 AM to 1 PM, the UV Index can reach dangerously high levels, peaking at 13! Being informed about these fluctuations can empower residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions, ensuring safe outdoor activities while enjoying all that Bandundu has to offer.
The UV Index data reveals a dramatic transformation throughout the day. Early in the morning, at 07:00, the UV Index starts at a minimal 1, but by 09:00, it skyrockets to 7, indicating a rise in sun intensity. The peak occurs between 11:00 and 12:00, where it reaches its zenith at an impressive 13, showcasing the potential for skin damage without protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines, with values dropping to 4 by 15:00 and further dwindling to a 0 by 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of sun safety during the midday hours when UV radiation is most potent, urging us to embrace the shade and apply sunscreen accordingly.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
During the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, peaking during the early months. From January to May, the UV Index remains in the extreme category, ranging from 13 to 14, with a burn time of just 10 minutes, highlighting the critical need for sun protection. As summer approaches, June and July see a slight decrease to the very high category (UV Index 8-9), extending burn time to 15 minutes, but caution is still essential. August reverts back to 9, while September through December return to the extreme level with a UV Index of 12. Visitors and residents alike should take special care during the high-risk months of January through May and September through December, ensuring they wear adequate sunscreen and protective clothing, and limit direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours.
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 |
| Bandundu | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 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 |