Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Xiaoxi, China, where sun exposure can significantly impact skin health. As UV levels rise, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM—when the index peaks at a striking 13—awareness becomes vital for preventing sunburn and long-term skin damage. With a Cfa climate characterized by warm summers and ample sunshine, Xiaoxi poses unique risks, making it essential for locals to stay informed about daily UV levels. This knowledge empowers individuals to take the necessary precautions, ensuring safe and enjoyable outdoor activities year-round.
At sunrise, the UV Index begins its ascent at 1 by 07:00, indicating minimal risk for sun exposure. As the day progresses, it climbs steadily, reaching 3 by 08:00 and escalating dramatically to 6 by 09:00. The sun's intensity peaks at 13 by noon and maintains a high of 12 until 13:00, signaling a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. After this peak, the index gradually tapers off, dropping to 9 by 14:00, then back to 6 by 15:00. As the afternoon fades into evening, the UV Index declines to 3 at 16:00, 2 at 17:00, and ultimately settles at 1 by 18:00 before disappearing altogether by 19:00. It's crucial to stay protected during the peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00 when the index 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 | 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 exposure levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with high-risk months predominantly occurring from February to September. In February, the UV Index reaches 10, categorized as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. This trend continues to escalate, peaking in August at a UV Index of 14, demanding maximum caution due to its extreme classification and a mere 10 minutes burn time. As we transition into autumn, levels gradually decline, dropping to 10 in October and 9 in November, remaining very high until the year's end. Therefore, it is crucial for visitors and residents alike to prioritize sun protection, especially during these peak months. Applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day can help mitigate health risks associated with UV exposure.
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 |
| Guangzhou UVI | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 |
| Xiaoxi | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 7 |
| Shenzhen UVI | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |