UV Index in Changsha, China

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Changsha, China is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. As the sun rises higher in the sky, the UV levels can reach a maximum of 12 around noon, indicating the potential for significant skin damage without protection. With Changsha's humid subtropical climate (Cwa), residents and visitors face increased UV exposure, particularly during the summer months. Staying informed about daily UV levels empowers you to make smarter decisions about sun safety, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful outdoors while protecting your skin from harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Changsha

At dawn, the UV Index starts off gently, peaking at just 1 by 7:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, its intensity increases rapidly, reaching 4 by 9:00 AM and striking 10 by 11:00 AM—a clear warning to seek shade or slather on sunscreen. The highest reading of 12 occurs at both noon and 1:00 PM, indicating peak solar intensity. Fortunately, as afternoon approaches, the index begins to wane, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM and further declining to below 5 by 4:00 PM. By the time 7:00 PM rolls around, the UV danger has diminished significantly, settling back to a safe 1. Stay protected during those intense midday hours!

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	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	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	11	extreme	10 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Changsha

Throughout the year, UV exposure levels fluctuate notably, with high-risk months primarily from March to September, where values are categorized as very high to extreme. Specifically, May and June see the peak UV Index of 12, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes. March and April also present serious risks with UV indexes reaching 8 and 10, respectively. As a result, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to take protective measures during these months, such as wearing sunscreen with high SPF, donning protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun's rays are strongest. Conversely, January, November, and December offer moderate to high exposure levels, allowing for more manageable sun exposure when precautions are taken.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Changsha, China

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Changsha. 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 Changsha, 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 Changsha UV Index with Other China Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Changsha 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.

Changsha'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 UVI	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
Changsha	5	6	8	10	11	12	12	11	11	9	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