Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. Understanding the levels of UV radiation can help you take proactive measures against potential damage, especially during peak hours when the index reaches its highest point of 10 around noon. With Kolwezi’s Aw climate characterized by intense sun exposure, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen becomes essential for outdoor enthusiasts and residents alike. Stay informed and protect your skin—your future self will thank you!
The hourly UV Index reveals a dynamic range of sun exposure today. Starting off at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs, peaking at a striking 10 by 12:00 PM—the peak exposure time. As the sun reaches its zenith, caution is advised for outdoor activities during the 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM window when the index remains high at 9 and 10. Following this midday surge, the index gracefully descends; by 3:00 PM, it dips to 4 and continues to decline to 1 by 5:00 PM. Finally, after a brief respite, the UV rays fade to 0 by 6:00 PM, signaling a safe return for evening outdoor plans. Stay sun-smart and enjoy the day wisely!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 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 |