Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Hongchun, China, where the warm, temperate climate can lead to significant sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health, especially during peak hours when the index reaches highs of 12 around noon and early afternoon. With typical exposures varying throughout the day, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential in this Cwa climate zone, where UV radiation can become a serious concern. Equip yourself with the knowledge to enjoy the sun safely in beautiful Hongchun!
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the UV Index reaches its peak around noon, peaking at a striking 12 between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. The day begins with a gentle start—just a 1 at 7:00 AM, gradually rising to 2 by 8:00 AM. By 10:00 AM, the intensity escalates to an 8, followed by a stunning 10 at 11:00 AM. As the clock strikes noon, the UV Index hits its zenith at 12, signaling the strongest solar radiation of the day. The intensity begins to wane, dropping back to 10 at 2:00 PM, before tapering off to 5 at 4:00 PM. As evening approaches, the UV Index gently descends to 1 by 6:00 PM, heralding the end of a radiant day. Stay protected during those peak hours, especially from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal changes, peaking in the summer months. From January to February, the UV Index begins at 6 and escalates to 7, categorizing the exposure as high, with a burn time of 25 minutes. As spring approaches, March sees an increase to 8 (very high), leading to a decrease in burn time to 15 minutes. The UV Index reaches its maximum intensity from April to September, with values between 11 and 13 (extreme), resulting in a critical burn time of only 10 minutes. The risk notably subsides in October with a drop to 9 (very high) and continues to decline throughout November and December, when the levels are 7 (high) and 5 (moderate) respectively, allowing for 25 and 30 minutes before burn occurs. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautionary measures during the high-risk months (April to September), ensuring adequate sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Hongchun | 6 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
| 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 |