Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Bulungu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, as it serves as a vital guide for sun safety and skin health. With maximum UV levels peaking at 9 during midday hours, awareness helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of long-term skin damage. The tropical climate of Bulungu, characterized by its warmth and abundant sunshine, can lead to increased UV exposure, particularly from late morning to early afternoon. By staying informed about local UV conditions, you can enjoy the outdoors while protecting your skin for a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle.
The UV Index for today showcases a striking peak between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where it reaches a high of 9, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the day progresses, the index begins to taper off, transitioning to a 5 at 2:00 PM and then dropping further to 3 by 3:00 PM. The late afternoon brings a noticeable decline, finishing off with 1 at 4:00 PM and fading to 0 after 6:00 PM. If you're planning outdoor activities, the optimal time to soak up the sun safely is definitely before noon! Don’t forget your sunscreen during those peak hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels demonstrate significant seasonal variation, with extreme levels persisting from January to May and a notable spike in April, when the index reaches 15. The risk remains high during these months, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As summer approaches, from June to August, the index decreases slightly to 8-9, categorized as very high, extending burn times to 15 minutes. The transition into fall sees a resurgence of extreme levels in September and October, with indices ranging from 11 to 12 and a burn time of 10 minutes once again. High-risk months—particularly January through May and September through November—demand heightened sun safety measures for visitors and residents alike. It is crucial to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun 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 |
| Bulungu | 14 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 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 |