Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Kalemie, Democratic Republic of the Congo, as it directly impacts sunburn prevention and overall skin health. With a tropical climate characterized by high UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 1 PM when the index peaks at a striking 10, recognizing these levels can help individuals safeguard themselves against harmful effects. Being aware of the daily UV fluctuations empowers the community to take proactive measures, ensuring that everyone enjoys the sun safely while taking care of their skin’s well-being.
In the early hours of the day, the UV Index starts low, peaking at 1 at 07:00 before gradually rising as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 10:00, it reaches a noteworthy 8, escalating to its maximum level of 10 at 11:00 and 12:00—the prime hours for sun exposure. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline: 9 at 13:00, followed by a drop to 7 at 14:00. The late afternoon sees it further decrease, with values falling to 4 at 15:00 and down to 1 by 17:00. Finally, the UV Index falls to 0 after 18:00, marking the end of a sun-drenched day. Keep in mind, when the UV Index is high, it's crucial to protect your skin!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk of harmful exposure occurring from January to April when the index reaches an extreme level of 15 to 16. These months demand immediate protective measures, as the burn time is only 10 minutes. As summer approaches, from June to July, the index decreases slightly to 10, categorized as very high, with a burn time extending to 15 minutes. August resurges with an index of 12, reverting to extreme levels, while September, October, and November maintain a similar high risk of 12 to 13. Finally, in December, the UV index again hits 14, requiring caution. Visitors and residents are advised to take proactive steps to protect their skin, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during these high-risk months.
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 |
| Kalemie | 15 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 14 |