Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Yangambi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, as it serves as a vital tool for sun safety. High levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage, making it essential to monitor UV exposure throughout the day. In Yangambi's tropical climate, the risk of harmful UV rays peaks, especially around midday, where readings can soar as high as 13—signifying extreme risk. By staying informed about the UV Index, individuals can take proactive measures to protect their skin and well-being from the sun's intensity.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts off low, peaking at 1 by 7:00 AM. A gradual increase ensues, with a notable surge around 9:00 AM, reaching 5. By 10:00 AM, things heat up, hitting a striking 9, and by 11:00 AM, the index reaches 12—a sign to seek shade. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM with an intense 13, persisting for the next hour. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to decline, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM, then gently tapering off to 7 at 3:00 PM. The evening brings a cool relief, with the UV index easing down to 1 by 5:00 PM and concluding at 0 after 7:00 PM. Be sure to protect your skin when the sun is at its highest!
| 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 | 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 |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows notable seasonal variations with extreme levels persisting from January to June and again in August through November. The high-risk months include March, April, May, and September, where the UV Index peaks at 14, indicating critical levels of ultraviolet radiation that can lead to skin damage in as little as 10 minutes of unprotected exposure. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours when UV intensity is highest. By staying informed and taking these measures, individuals can better protect themselves from the harmful effects of UV radiation throughout the year.
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 |
| Yangambi | 12 | 11 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 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 |