Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Uvira, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the climate can lead to significant sun exposure. As a community situated in a tropical climate, the UV levels can soar, especially between late morning and early afternoon, peaking at 11—indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Being aware of the UV Index helps in taking necessary precautions to prevent sunburn and protect skin health, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the outdoors safely while minimizing the long-term risks associated with excessive sun exposure. Stay informed and stay safe under the sun!
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic sunlight experience throughout the day. Starting off with a gentle rise, the index peaks at 11 at 12:00 PM, signaling the highest risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the morning progresses, numbers ascend steadily, reaching 10 by 11:00 AM and 8 at 10:00 AM. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, dipping to 7 at 2:00 PM, before easing off to 5 by 3:00 PM, and winding down further as daylight wanes. By 6:00 PM, the UV Index drops to 0, showcasing how vital it is to seek shade and cover during those midday hours when the sun is most intense. Always remember to stay protected when the UV Index climbs!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 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 exhibits high levels throughout the year, with extreme exposure categories reported from January to May. March stands out as the month with the highest index at 16, closely followed by February and April at 15 and 16, respectively. High-risk months for UV exposure include the early months of the year through May, particularly January to April, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures during these months—such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade whenever possible. As the season changes, while the UV Index stabilizes around 11 to 13 from June to December, consistent vigilance is still recommended to avoid skin damage.
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 |
| Uvira | 14 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 |