UV Index in Beijing, China

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Beijing, China, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health, especially in a city with a typically continental climate that can lead to intense sun exposure. The UV Index indicates the strength of solar ultraviolet radiation, guiding you on when to seek shade or apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With peak UV levels reaching as high as 10 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for enjoying the outdoors while minimizing health risks. Stay informed, and make sun safety a priority in the vibrant streets of Beijing!

Hourly UV Index in Beijing

As the day unfolds, the UV Index reveals a dynamic dance of sunlight intensity. Starting with a gentle 2 at 07:00, the index climbs steadily to a moderate 3 by 08:00. The real surge kicks in at 09:00, peaking at a significant 10 between 12:00 and 13:00, marking the sun’s most potent hours. A gradual decline follows, dropping to 8 by 14:00 and then tapering off to 6 at 15:00. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index diminishes further, settling at 4 by 16:00 and dwindling to a safe 1 by 18:00 and 19:00. This data hints at a crucial reminder: protect your skin during those midday hours when UV rays are strongest!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	3	moderate	30 min
09:00	5	moderate	30 min
10:00	8	very high	15 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	10	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	6	high	25 min
16:00	4	moderate	30 min
17:00	2	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Beijing

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. From April to August, the UV Index rises dramatically, peaking at 10 in July, categorizing this period as very high risk for sun exposure. April, May, June, and July are critical months where burn times decrease significantly to 15 minutes, necessitating extra caution for sun exposure. In contrast, January and December present a lower risk, with a UV Index of 2, allowing for a safer outdoor experience with burn times of 45 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to be especially vigilant from April to August, employing protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing, and to limit their sun exposure during peak hours to reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Beijing, China

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Beijing. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Beijing, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Beijing UV Index with Other China Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Beijing compares to other major locations across China. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Beijing's solar exposure compared to other cities in China. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Beijing	2	3	5	8	9	9	10	9	7	6	4	2
Chengdu UVI	5	6	8	10	12	11	11	10	11	8	6	4
Shanghai UVI	5	6	8	10	10	11	12	11	11	8	6	4
Guangzhou UVI	7	9	11	12	13	13	13	12	11	10	9	7
Shenzhen UVI	7	10	12	12	14	13	13	13	12	11	9	7