UV Index in Changsha, China

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Changsha, China, where the subtropical climate can lead to intense sun exposure, particularly during the peak hours of the day. By monitoring UV levels, you can take proactive measures to prevent sunburn and protect your skin health. With UV Index values rising sharply, often peaking at 11 during midday, awareness of these levels is essential to safely enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing the risk of skin damage. Be mindful of the sun's intensity, especially from 10 AM to 2 PM, when the UV exposure is at its highest, ensuring you stay protected under Changsha's bright sky.

Hourly UV Index in Changsha

The UV Index for the day presents a fascinating variation as the sun climbs higher in the sky. Starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00, the intensity gradually escalates, reaching a moderate 4 by 09:00. The peak hits at 12:00 and 13:00, soaring to an intense 11, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index begins to decline, tapering to 8 at 15:00, and by the evening, it plummets back to a 1 by 18:00. This data serves as a reminder to stay vigilant about sun safety during those peak hours when UV exposure is at its highest!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	2	low	45 min
09:00	4	moderate	30 min
10:00	7	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	11	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	8	very high	15 min
16:00	5	moderate	30 min
17:00	3	moderate	30 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Changsha

Throughout the year, UV Index levels show significant seasonal variation, with the highest risks occurring from March to August. In April and July, the UV Index peaks at 12, categorizing these months as having extreme exposure with a burn time as short as 10 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, UV levels begin to decrease, with September and October registering very high indices of 10 and 9, respectively. Residents and visitors should take extra precautions during the high-risk months between March and August, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen to safeguard against overexposure. In contrast, January, November, and December present moderate UV levels, allowing for slightly longer safe exposure times of 30 and 25 minutes.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Changsha, China

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Changsha. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Changsha, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Changsha UV Index with Other China Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Changsha compares to other major locations across China. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Changsha's solar exposure compared to other cities in China. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Changsha	5	7	8	11	12	11	12	12	10	9	6	5
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