Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Libenge, Democratic Republic of the Congo, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 11 during midday, understanding these fluctuations helps you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. Located in the Aw climate zone, Libenge experiences intense sun exposure, especially during the dry season. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful, warm days while safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.
The UV Index peaks sharply as the day unfolds, starting at a mere 1 at 7:00 AM and swiftly rising to an impressive 11 by noon. The morning brings moderate levels, with a 3 at 8:00 AM and reaching 6 by 9:00 AM, but by 11:00 AM the sun is at its strongest, urging caution as it hits 10. The peak hour of 12:00 PM sees the UV Index soar to 11, a clear signal to seek shade and apply sunscreen. By the mid-afternoon, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 10 at 1:00 PM, and gradually subsiding to 4 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the index dips to 2 at 4:00 PM and further to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM, finally calming down to 0 by 6:00 PM. This UV index pattern highlights the importance of sun protection during mid-day hours when the risk of harm is at its peak.
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | 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, the UV Index remains consistently high, with the highest values recorded from March to May, peaking at 14 in April. These months, along with February, exhibit an extreme exposure category, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. While the UV Index slightly decreases in the summer months of June and July, it still remains at 11, indicating extreme risk. August to October also maintain high levels, with the Index sitting at 12, necessitating vigilant sun protection. As winter approaches, December sees a drop to 10, deemed very high, yet the burn time still requires caution at 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take protective measures during these high-risk months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize sun exposure and prevent 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 |
| Libenge | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 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 |