Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Butembo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the tropical climate poses specific sun exposure risks. With UV levels peaking around midday—reaching an intense 11—awareness of these UV fluctuations can be pivotal in preventing sunburns and safeguarding your skin health. By recognizing the dangers of high UV exposure, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself, especially during the hours when the sun's rays are most potent. Whether you're enjoying the vibrant local scenery or simply going about your daily activities, staying informed about the UV Index helps ensure you enjoy the outdoors safely.
As the day dawns, the UV Index starts off mild at 1 around 7 AM, offering a gentle introduction to sunlight. By 8 AM, it rises to 2, still manageable for those heading outdoors. The intensity climbs sharply as we approach midday, peaking at a striking 11 at 12 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Wearing sunscreen and protective clothing is crucial during this time! Gradually, the index begins to decline, dropping to 5 by 3 PM and plummeting to 0 by 7 PM, signaling a safe window for evening strolls. The UV trajectory of the day underscores the importance of sun protection, especially during the late morning and early afternoon hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index demonstrates extreme exposure levels year-round, with particularly high-risk months from January to April, when the index peaks at 16. This strong UV radiation necessitates caution for both visitors and residents, as the burn time is a mere 10 minutes throughout the year. Even in less intense months like June through November, the index remains high, between 11 and 15, so protective measures should be maintained consistently. Both locals and travelers are advised to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and to seek shade, especially during midday hours, to minimize the risk of skin damage. Always be proactive about sun safety, regardless of the season.
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 |
| Butembo | 14 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 12 |