Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the climate can expose individuals to varying levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the day. With UV levels peaking dramatically—from a moderate 5 at 09:00 to a staggering 13 at noon—awareness of these fluctuating indices is essential for preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. Kisangani’s typically warm, tropical climate heightens the risk of overexposure, making it important to monitor UV levels carefully. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the sunny days while protecting your skin from harmful rays.
Under the sun's watchful gaze, the UV Index rises sharply throughout the morning, starting at a modest 1 at 07:00 before climbing to a substantial 9 by 10:00. The peak intensity hits at 12:00, reaching an impressive 13—a clear reminder to protect the skin during midday hours. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to taper off, descending to 10 by 14:00, then falling to 6 at 15:00. After that, a gentle decline leads us back to 1 by 17:00 and 0 by 19:00, as the sun sets and the day winds down. Stay vigilant, as these numbers highlight the importance of sunscreen and shade when the sun is at its strongest!
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 | 9 | 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 | 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 |