Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Mangai, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the climate is characterized by high temperatures and humidity typical of the Aw climate zone. As the sun's rays can reach their peak intensity during the day, particularly around noon when the UV index can soar to 9, being aware of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, locals can take proactive steps to protect themselves from potential harm, ensuring outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable even under the intense sun.
Starting the day with a gentle UV Index of 1 at 07:00, the sun quickly gains strength. By 08:00, it rises to 3, signaling the need for some precaution. The real heat hits at 10:00 with a peak of 7, followed closely by a blistering 9 between 11:00 and 12:00—now’s the time for sunscreen and shade! As the afternoon rolls in, the index begins to dip, dropping to 3 by 15:00 and dwindling to 1 by 17:00. By 18:00 and 19:00, the UV Index plummets to 0, offering a safe sigh of relief as the sun sets. Stay protected and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 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 | 6 | high | 25 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 values exhibit significant seasonal changes, with several months posing a high risk for sunburn and skin damage. From January to May, the UV Index remains consistently high at 13-14, categorized as extreme, indicating a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Moving into the summer months of June to August, the index slightly decreases to 8-9, classified as very high, allowing for a marginally longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, the risk remains considerable. As fall approaches in September, UV levels rise again to 11, returning to an extreme category. The year concludes with high readings once more in October (13), November (13), and December (12), maintaining a burn time of 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take essential precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours, especially from January to May and during September. Managing sun exposure effectively will help prevent skin damage throughout the year.
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 |
| Mangai | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 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 |