Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Zhangye, China, where the climate is characterized by a dry, continental atmosphere typical of the BWk zone. With UV levels soaring as high as 12 during the peak hours around noon, awareness of these daily variations is essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays not only prevents immediate discomfort but also reduces the long-term risks of skin damage and cancer. Being informed about the UV Index in Zhangye allows you to take proactive measures, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience under the abundant sunshine this region offers.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its gradual ascent, peaking dramatically at 12:00 PM with a formidable reading of 11. From the early morning hours, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00, it swiftly climbs to 2 by 08:00, reaching 3 by 09:00. The real intensity kicks in by 10:00, where it soars to 6, and from 11:00 onwards, it hits dangerous levels, peaking at 12 from 13:00 to 14:00. After this zenith, the UV Index starts its descent, tapering to 10 at 15:00, then gradually falling to 4 by 17:00, and back down to a more manageable 1 by 19:00. This highlights the need for sun protection during midday hours, especially when exposure can lead to serious skin damage.
| 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 | 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 16:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 17:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, UV exposure levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year. High-risk months generally occur from March to September, where the UV Index peaks, with April to August notably presenting extreme levels (11-12), resulting in a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents should take extra precautions during these months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. Conversely, winter months like January, February, and November have moderate UV levels (3-4), allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes, while the UV Index drops to a low of 2 in December, permitting up to 45 minutes for safe exposure. It's essential to stay aware of the UV Index and adjust outdoor activities accordingly to protect your skin year-round.
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 |
| Zhangye | 3 | 4 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 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 |