Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Xiaochang, China, where the humid subtropical climate (Cfa) often leads to heightened sun exposure. As the sun climbs higher during the day, UV levels can soar, peak at a dangerous 12 around noon, making awareness vital to prevent sunburn and protect skin health. Knowing when UV levels are elevated helps you take necessary precautions, ensuring you enjoy the beautiful Xiaochang outdoors without risking harmful effects on your skin. With the right knowledge, you can enjoy the sunny days while staying safe!
The UV Index for today showcases a dramatic rise as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Beginning at a mild 1 at 07:00, it reaches a low 2 by 08:00, signaling a safe start to the day. However, as the clock ticks toward 10:00, intensity spikes to 7, peaking at an intense 12 from noon to 13:00, indicating a critical time for sun safety. Following this zenith, the index gradually decreases, falling back to 10 by 14:00 and tapering off to 1 by 19:00. To enjoy the outdoors while minimizing skin damage, it’s essential to stay vigilant around midday when the UV levels are at their highest!
| 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 | 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 | 10 | very high | 15 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 |
The UV Index displays significant seasonal changes, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk throughout the year. January and February start with a high UV Index (6-7) where unprotected skin can burn within 25 minutes. The risk escalates dramatically from March to September, peaking in July with an extreme UV Index of 13 and a burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during these summer months, ensuring they wear adequate sunscreen and protective clothing. In contrast, October and November see a decrease in UV levels (9 and 7, respectively), but caution is still necessary as burn times remain relatively short at 15-25 minutes. By December, the UV Index lowers to 5, categorizing exposure as moderate, allowing more time—30 minutes—before burning occurs. It’s essential for everyone to stay informed on local UV levels and adjust sun safety practices accordingly throughout the year.
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 |
| Xiaochang | 6 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 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 |