Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Sake, Democratic Republic of the Congo, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels is vital not only for preventing sunburn but also for reducing the long-term risks associated with UV exposure, such as skin cancer and premature aging. With the region's Cfb climate, which features warm summers and high humidity, locals and visitors alike can experience significant UV exposure, particularly during peak hours when the index reaches a maximum of 14 around noon. Stay informed and protect yourself from harmful rays while enjoying the beautiful surroundings!
The UV Index rises dramatically throughout the morning, jumping from a mild 1 at 07:00 to a peak of 14 by 12:00. As the sun reaches its zenith, the intensity surpasses 10 between 10:00 and 13:00, signaling an urgent need for sun protection. The index then gracefully declines, dropping to 5 by 15:00 and falling progressively to 0 as evening approaches, marking the day's end at 19:00. This pattern highlights the importance of staying shielded during the peak hours, especially from 11:00 to 13:00, when the sun's rays are at their strongest.
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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels show significant consistency at extreme levels, with values primarily ranging from 11 to 16. The high-risk months for UV exposure are from January to March, where the UV Index peaks at 16 in March, indicating that even minimal sun exposure can result in a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should remain vigilant, particularly during these months, to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Regardless of the month, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible to mitigate risks associated with prolonged exposure to UV radiation.
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 |
Sake | 15 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 |