Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Dunhuang, China, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. With alarming UV levels peaking at 11 during midday hours, awareness of these fluctuations can help prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Given Dunhuang's BWk climate, characterized by arid conditions and abundant sunlight, it's essential to monitor daily UV exposure to enjoy the outdoors safely. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can protect yourself and loved ones while exploring this stunning region.
The UV Index today paints a vivid picture of the sun's intensity as it rises to its peak around midday. Starting off gently at 1 by 07:00 and 08:00, the sun begins to assert itself, climbing to 3 by 09:00. As the clock strikes 10:00, the UV index soars to 5, and by 11:00, it surges to 7. The real heat hits around noon, with 12:00 witnessing a striking 9 before peaking at 11 from 13:00 to 14:00—ideal conditions for sunbathers and outdoor enthusiasts. However, as the day progresses, the UV levels start to dip; by 15:00, it settles at 10, then recedes to 8 by 16:00. Finally, as evening approaches, the index drops to 5 at 17:00, 3 at 18:00, and returns to a mild 1 by 19:00. It’s a day to embrace the sun early, but don’t forget the sunscreen as the UV rays reach their zenith!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant seasonal variations, with high-risk months primarily occurring from March to September. In March, the UV Index rises to 7 (high), intensifying in April and May with values of 9 and 10, respectively, indicating very high exposure risks. The peak occurs in June, with an extreme index of 11, before slightly tapering off in July and August. September still presents a notable risk at 8 (very high), while October sees a decrease to a high index of 6, before falling to moderate and low levels in the winter months of November (4) and December (2). To protect against skin damage, visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during the high UV months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours.
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 |
| Dunhuang | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 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 |
| Shenzhen UVI | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |