Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Xihu, China, is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. With UV levels peaking at a high of 12 around midday, awareness of the changing UV Index can help you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Given Xihu’s semi-arid climate (BSk), the sun can be particularly intense, especially during summer months. By keeping track of UV levels throughout the day, you can take proactive measures to protect yourself from harmful rays and enjoy the beautiful outdoors safely.
As the sun rises, the UV Index (UVI) steadily climbs, beginning with a safe level of 1 at 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches 4, signaling a stronger need for sun protection. The peak intensity occurs between 12:00 and 13:00, where the UVI hits an alarming 12, illustrating the importance of taking precautions during these hours. As the afternoon wanes, values start to recede, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and further declining to 2 by 18:00. Wrap up your outdoor activities as the sun dips below the horizon, as the UVI falls back to 1 by 19:00. Always remember to stay safe under the sun, especially during those peak hours!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, seasonal UV changes reveal fluctuating levels of sun exposure, with the months of May through August marked by extreme UV Index values of 10 or higher, posing the highest risk for sunburn and skin damage. March and April also see a rise to very high levels (8-10), indicating a significant increase in UV radiation as spring progresses. The high-risk months are therefore clearly identified as May to August, where a UV Index of 12 remains consistent, equating to a burn time of just 10 minutes. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing sunscreen with high SPF, protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible, particularly during midday hours when the sun's rays are strongest. During the lower UV months—from November to February—while the exposure is moderate, it’s still recommended to practice sun safety, especially on bright, clear days.
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 |
Xihu | 3 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 3 |
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 |