Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Basoko, Democratic Republic of the Congo, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With UV levels peaking at a dangerous 13 during midday, understanding the fluctuation of UV exposure throughout the day can significantly reduce the risk of skin damage. Basoko's tropical climate, characterized by intense sunlight, amplifies these risks, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. By knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen, you can protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
As the day unfolds, the UV Index starts modestly, peaking at 1 by 7 AM and gradually rising to reach a significant maximum of 13 around 12 PM. This mid-day period is critical, where the sun's rays are at their strongest, marking urgency for sun protection. Following this peak, the UV levels begin to decline steadily, dipping to 10 at 2 PM and further decreasing to 3 by 4 PM. As evening approaches, the index returns to safe levels, ending the day at 0 by 7 PM. It’s an essential reminder to be vigilant around midday, where sun safety becomes paramount.
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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences notable fluctuations throughout the year, with extreme levels persisting from January to June and again in August to November, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The highest readings occur in March and April, reaching a peak of 14, while July marks a slight decline to 10, categorized as very high. For visitors and residents, the months of January through June and August through November represent high-risk months for sunburn, with a critical burn time of just 10 minutes for most of the year, except in July, when it is slightly extended to 15 minutes. It is essential for individuals to take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, during these months to protect against harmful 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 |
Basoko | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |
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 |