Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the climate offers abundant sunshine and significant exposure to ultraviolet rays. Monitoring UV levels is vital not only for preventing painful sunburns but also for safeguarding long-term skin health. In Kolwezi, the UV Index can soar, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, reaching peak values of 12—putting residents at a higher risk for skin damage during these hours. Awareness of these levels can empower you to take necessary precautions and enjoy the sun safely in this vibrant region.
At 07:00, the UV Index starts off gently at 1, making it a great time for morning walkers. By 08:00, it rises to 2, still manageable for outdoor activities. The real intensity kicks in at 09:00, where the UV Index jumps to 5, signaling a need for increased sun protection. 10:00 marks the beginning of peak sun exposure with a UV Index of 8, reaching a dramatic high of 11 at 11:00. As the sun inches towards its zenith, it peaks at 12:00 with a maximum index of 12—a strong reminder to be cautious! The afternoon sees a slight decrease, with 11 at 13:00, followed by a dip to 9 at 14:00. The intensity of the sun gradually fades, dropping to 5 by 15:00, and tapering off to 2 at 16:00. By 17:00, it’s down to 1, and finally, the UV Index relaxes into the evening, hitting 0 by 18:00 and remaining there through 19:00. Remember, the hours around midday are the most potent for UV rays, so prioritize sun safety during those peak times!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | 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 in this region exhibits remarkably high levels, particularly from January to April where the index ranges from 16 to 14, categorized as extreme, with a rapid burn time of only 10 minutes. The high-risk months for UV exposure are undoubtedly from January to March, continuing into November and December, where precautions are essential due to the consistently high indexes. As temperatures rise in June and July, the UV Index remains at 10, classified as very high with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Residents and visitors should be vigilant during these months, practicing sun safety by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to minimize the risk of skin damage. In August and September, although the index drops slightly to 11 and 12, it still remains in the extreme category, necessitating continued awareness and preventative measures. Overall, throughout the year, individuals are advised to stay informed and protect themselves against harmful UV rays.
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 |
| 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 |
| Kolwezi | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |