Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Boende, Democratic Republic of the Congo is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. With the region's hot and humid Af climate, the potential for harmful UV radiation is significant, particularly during midday hours when the UV Index peaks at a remarkable 9. By being mindful of UV levels, residents and visitors can take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of long-term skin damage. As the sun rises higher, awareness of these UV levels becomes not just beneficial, but essential for safe and enjoyable outdoor activities.
The UV Index starts off low at 1 by 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 2 by 8:00 AM. The real intensity hits its peak at 12:00 PM with a high of 9, indicating a need for sun protection. From there, the Index dips to 7 at 1:00 PM and further declines to 3 by 3:00 PM. As the afternoon fades, the values plummet, resting at 1 by 4:00 PM and returning to 0 after 6:00 PM. Overall, it's a day where the midday sun commands our attention—be sure to take cover during the peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV levels experience significant changes, with the highest UV Index values occurring from January to April. During these months, the UV Index reaches extremes, peaking at 14, indicating a mere 10 minutes of unprotected exposure can result in sunburn. July sees a slight decrease to a very high category with a UV Index of 9, allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, August through November return to extreme levels, so vigilance remains essential. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun safety measures, especially during the high-risk months of January through April and again in August, ensuring appropriate sunblock is applied and protective clothing worn for extended outdoor activities.
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 |
Boende | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 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 |