Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the sun shines brightly all year round in its tropical climate. With UV levels peaking around noon, reaching as high as 9, awareness of these levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. As Kisangani experiences intense sunlight for many months, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen can make a significant difference in safeguarding your skin against harmful UV radiation. Stay informed and prioritize your sun safety to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while minimizing your risk!
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs throughout the morning, starting from a mild 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches a moderate 3, but the real heat kicks in around 10:00, peaking at an impressive 9 by 12:00 and 13:00. This is when sun protection is paramount, as the UV rays are at their strongest! As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to dip, dropping to 7 at 14:00 and further cooling down to 5 by 15:00. Finally, the UV Index tapers off to a low 1 by 17:00, before settling to a safe 0 by 19:00. Make sure to enjoy the sun responsibly and stay protected during those peak hours!
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 6 | 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 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 |