Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Businga, Democratic Republic of the Congo, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin's health amidst its tropical climate. With the UV levels peaking at 11 during midday, understanding these fluctuations can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. As residents and visitors navigate the sunny days typical of the Aw climate zone, keeping an eye on the UV Index empowers individuals to enjoy outdoor activities while taking necessary precautions against harmful ultraviolet radiation. Stay informed and protect your skin!
As the day unfolds, the UV Index highlights the importance of sun safety. Starting at a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM, the index climbs steadily, reaching 4 by 8:00 AM and hitting 6 by 9:00 AM. The sun is truly at its peak around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, where it soars to a striking 11, signaling a high risk for unprotected skin. From there, it begins to decline, dipping to 9 at 1:00 PM, and gradually falling to 4 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV exposure drops further to 2 by 4:00 PM, eventually tapering off to 0 after 6:00 PM. Awareness of these hourly fluctuations is key to enjoying the outdoors safely!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 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 |
Throughout the year, seasonal UV levels remain consistently high, with extreme exposure categories dominating from January through October. The highest UV Index occurs in April at 14, followed closely by March and October (both at 13). Notably, the months of January through May and August through September pose the greatest risk with an index of 12 or higher, indicating that visitors and residents should exercise caution. With a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes in the extreme months, it is crucial to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade, especially during midday hours. Even in November and December, when UV levels drop slightly, it remains prudent to stay vigilant, as burn times extend only to 15 minutes in December, still classified as very high.
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 |
Businga | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
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 |