Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Putian, China, where the Cfa climate often brings warm temperatures and significant sun exposure throughout the year. Knowledge of UV levels can play a crucial role in preventing sunburn and promoting overall skin health, helping individuals take proactive measures during those peak hours when the UV Index can soar, reaching levels as high as 13 around midday. Whether you’re enjoying outdoor activities or simply spending time in the sun, being aware of the UV Index not only protects your skin but ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience under the brilliant Putian sun.
As the sun rises, the UV Index gradually climbs, starting at a modest 2 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it sharply increases to 4, setting the stage for the day's peak. The intensity hits its zenith at 12:00 PM, soaring to 13—a potent reminder to take sun safety precautions. As the afternoon unfolds, the UV levels begin to wane, dipping to 9 by 2:00 PM and further declining to 6 by 3:00 PM. The evening brings a gentle decline, with the index falling to 2 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 0 by 7:00 PM. This dynamic pattern emphasizes the importance of sun protection, particularly during the midday hours when the UV rays are strongest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | 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 Index levels display significant seasonal variations, with notable peaks during the spring and summer months. From March to August, the UV Index reaches extreme levels (11-13), indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with an exceptionally short burn time of just 10 minutes during these months. The highest UV Index occurs in May through July, where protective measures are crucial. Conversely, the fall and winter months present lower UV Index levels, ranging from 6 to 9, though caution is still advised, especially in February and October, which fall into the very high risk category. Visitors and residents are encouraged to take precautions year-round, but particularly between March and September, by wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, and seeking shade 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 |
| Putian | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 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 |