Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Xianfeng, China, where the climate tends toward humid subtropical conditions (Cfa). With UV levels peaking at 12 around midday, awareness of these ratings can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and overall skin health. As UV exposure risks rise during the hottest hours, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen becomes essential to protect yourself and your loved ones. The unique weather patterns in Xianfeng mean that being informed and prepared can make all the difference in enjoying the outdoors safely.
The UV Index peaks dramatically as the day unfolds, making sun safety a critical consideration. At 07:00, the UV Index starts at a modest 1, but by 09:00, it climbs to 4, signaling a noticeable increase in solar intensity. The highest reading occurs at 12:00, reaching a staggering 11, which indicates a very high level of UV radiation—perfect conditions for seeking shade or wearing protective clothing. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to decline from 12:00 to 15:00, with 11 and 8 respectively, before tapering off to 3 by 17:00. The evening light brings relief as the UV Index drops back to 1 by 18:00, encouraging outdoor relaxation post-sun exposure. Always remain vigilant during those peak hours!
| 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 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV index levels fluctuate significantly, with high-risk months typically occurring from March to August. During these months, the UV index peaks at 12, indicating an extreme exposure category. Specifically, May, June, July, and August have the highest levels, necessitating a cautious approach with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As late spring transitions into summer, it’s crucial for both visitors and residents to take proactive measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. Conversely, in the colder months, particularly January and December, UV exposure is lower, with values categorized as moderate to high, allowing for more lenient sun safety practices. Overall, staying informed about UV levels and adjusting outdoor activities accordingly is essential for skin health year-round.
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 |
| Xianfeng | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 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 |