Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Butembo, Democratic Republic of the Congo is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With UV levels peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM at a staggering 12, awareness of sun exposure can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Butembo's tropical climate brings high UV radiation, especially during midday, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to monitor these levels daily. By understanding UV risks, you can enjoy the sunny days while safeguarding your skin's health.
At dawn, the UV Index starts off low at 1 at 07:00, but as the sun rises, so does the intensity of UV radiation. By 09:00, it reaches 5, climbing rapidly to a peak of 12 at 12:00. The midday sun is fierce, with the UV Index hitting its maximum of 11 at 11:00 and slightly dropping to 8 by 14:00. As the afternoon progresses, the index declines steadily, returning to a more moderate 5 at 15:00, then tapering off to 2 by 16:00. The day concludes with a safe 1 at 17:00 and fades to 0 from 18:00 onwards, indicating a reprieve from UV exposure. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!
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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 8 | 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 |
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 |