January weather forecast
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo

Kicking off the year in Kinshasa is a warm weather pattern heralding the start of the year. Conditions are uniformly wet with consistent rainfall throughout the month, giving way to pleasantly cool breezes that facilitate outdoor activities. Notably, average temperatures range from 21.8°C (71.2°F) to 30.7°C (87.3°F) paired with humidity at 80%. Compared to the coming months, January carries a heavier rainfall index with more condensation on surfaces. The environment shimmers, resplendent with lush plant life due to the high precipitation levels.

Temperature

Kinshasa experiences a recorded average high-temperature of a hot 30.7°C (87.3°F) in January, closely aligned with December's 29.8°C (85.6°F). Nighttime temperatures in Kinshasa hover around an average low of 21.8°C (71.2°F) in January.

Heat index

The average heat index in January is computed to be a blistering 40°C (104°F). Undertake special precautions, the probability of heat exhaustion and heat cramps is high. Prolonged activity may provoke heatstroke.
When referencing the heat index, its values are suitable for shady environments and light breezes. With exposure to direct sunlight, the heat index may be increased by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'feels like', is a measure that combines air temperature and relative humidity into a single value that indicates how hot the weather feels. The influence of weather is personal, with a diverse population experiencing it differently due to differences in body mass, stature, and degree of activity. Consider that direct sun exposure can intensify the felt heat, adding potentially 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees to the heat index. Heat index values are particularly meaningful for babies and toddlers. Younglings frequently fail to recognize the requirement to rest and rehydrate. Thirst emerges late in dehydration - it is imperative to keep hydration levels high, particularly during extended physical exertions.
When temperatures rise, the human body turns to perspiration, using the cooling power of evaporating sweat. A higher relative humidity affects normal body cooling by reducing the evaporation rate, subsequently lowering the rate at which the body cools and increasing the perception of heat. As the body gains more heat than it can dissipate, there's a risk of increasing temperatures and resultant overheating.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in January is 80%.

Rainfall

In Kinshasa, during January, the rain falls for 27.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 110mm (4.33") of precipitation. In Kinshasa, during the entire year, the rain falls for 243.1 days and collects up to 1109mm (43.66") of precipitation.

Daylight

In Kinshasa, the average length of the day in January is 12h and 21min.
On the first day of January in Kinshasa, sunrise is at 05:50 and sunset at 18:13. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:03 and sunset at 18:21 WAT.

Sunshine

In Kinshasa, the average sunshine in January is 9.4h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index in Kinshasa are January, March through May, July through September, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: The maximum UV index of 7 during January leads to these instructions:
Guard oneself from overexposure. Defence against sun injury is vital. Limit direct sun exposure especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak. However, keep in mind that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. Select sunglasses that boast both UVA and UVB protection to limit the adverse effects of the sun on the eyes.