Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Xi'ao, China, especially given its climate characterized by warm, humid summers typical of a Cfa climate zone. As UV levels can soar to a maximum of 13 during midday hours, awareness of these values plays a vital role in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. With risks peaking between 10 AM and 2 PM, when UV exposure is highest, knowing when to seek shade and apply sunscreen can significantly protect your skin from harmful effects. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely in Xi'ao!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate 3, but the real intensity kicks in after 9:00 AM when it reaches 6. The peak occurs between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, soaring to a blistering 12 and hitting a maximum of 13 at noon, indicating a serious need for sun protection. The intensity gradually diminishes in the afternoon, dropping to 10 by 2:00 PM and then sliding down to 4 by 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index traces back to 2 at 5:00 PM and finally settles at 1 by 7:00 PM, welcoming the cool embrace of evening. Staying vigilant about sun safety is crucial during peak hours from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM!
| 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, with the highest risk occurring from March to September, where the index reaches extreme levels of 12 to 14. This indicates a burn time of only 10 minutes, making it crucial for visitors and residents to take precautions during these months. In February, the UV Index rises sharply to 9 (very high), followed by extreme levels in March and continuing through August. As autumn approaches, the index drops, but caution remains important, particularly in October and November with values of 10 and 9 (very high). From January through early December, the UV Index is lower, ranging from 7 to 9, allowing for slightly longer safe exposure times of 15 to 25 minutes. To minimize risk, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade, particularly during high-risk months when UV levels are at their peak.
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 |
| Xi'ao | 7 | 9 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 |
| Shenzhen UVI | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |