Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ouning, China, where the subtropical climate often brings high levels of solar radiation. With peak UV levels reaching a staggering 13 around noon, staying informed about these fluctuations is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health. By recognizing when UV exposure is at its highest, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself from harmful effects, especially during the hotter summer months. This awareness will help you enjoy the beautiful weather while minimizing the risks associated with excessive sun exposure.
The UV Index paints a striking picture of the sun's intensity throughout the day. At 7:00 AM, the day begins with a moderate level of 2, gradually rising to 4 by 8:00 AM. As the sun climbs higher, the UV Index spikes to 6 at 9:00 AM and surges to 9 by 10:00 AM. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM, marked by a high of 13, reminding us to take precautions. After this zenith, the index begins to dip, dropping to 12 at 1:00 PM and 9 by 2:00 PM. As the afternoon progresses, the numbers decline further to 6 at 3:00 PM, then down to 4 at 4:00 PM. The evening brings a gentle decrease, with the UV Index falling to 1 by 6:00 PM and finally reaching 0 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of sun safety during midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | 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 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV radiation levels demonstrate significant seasonal variation, peaking during the summer months. High-risk months for UV exposure are March through September, where the UV Index consistently falls within the extreme category, necessitating minimal safe exposure times of just 10 minutes. February, October, and November follow with their very high UV Indexes, allowing slightly longer safe exposure of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during these high-risk periods, including wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM. As UV levels drop in January and December, individuals should remain vigilant but can enjoy slightly longer burn times of 25 minutes.
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 |
| Ouning | 6 | 8 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 6 |
| 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 |