Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo, being aware of the UV Index is vital for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and reduces long-term risks associated with excessive sun exposure, such as skin cancer. With a tropical climate characterized by high humidity and intense sunlight, Kisangani experiences significant UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at a striking 11. By staying informed about the UV Index, residents and visitors can take essential precautions to enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding their skin health.
The UV Index throughout the day showcases a dramatic rise as the sun reaches its peak. Starting at a modest 1 at 7:00 AM, it climbs steadily, hitting 4 by 9:00 AM, and then surging to 11 by noon—the highest level of the day. This intense peak at 12:00 PM signals a critical time for sun safety, with values remaining elevated at 10 until 1:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the index gradually declines to 5 by 3:00 PM, and then drops further, reaching a low of 0 by 7:00 PM. It's clear that during the midday hours, especially between 10 AM and 2 PM, extra precautions are essential to protect against harmful UV exposure.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 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 varies throughout the year, with extreme levels persisting from January to June, peaking at 14 in March and April. Notably high-risk months include March, April, and September, all featuring an index of 13 or higher. During these periods, the recommended burn time is as short as 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for protective measures against UV radiation. As we move into July, the index decreases slightly to 10 but remains in the very high category with a burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents should take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours, to safeguard against the harmful effects of UV exposure.
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 | 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 |