Last updated: August 1, 2025
In Yangambi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, understanding the UV index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the sun's harmful effects. With average UV levels peaking at 10 around midday, the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage escalates significantly, especially in its tropical climate. Being aware of these UV levels helps residents and visitors alike to take the necessary precautions, ensuring a safer outdoor experience while enjoying the vibrant beauty of Yangambi. Emphasizing sun safety today can lead to healthier skin tomorrow!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its upward climb, starting at 1 at 7:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, it reaches a moderate 3, but the real peak occurs between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, where it soars to a striking 10—the highest level of the day. This is the time when sun lovers should take extra precautions. The intensity begins to wane after 1:00 PM, gradually dropping to 8 by 2:00 PM and further down to 5 by 3:00 PM. As the day transitions into evening, the UV Index drops significantly, making its way back to 1 by 5:00 PM and fading completely to 0 by 7:00 PM. Plan your sun exposure wisely, especially during the midday hours when UV radiation is at its most potent!
| 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 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | 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 |
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 |