Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Xi'an, China, where the varying levels of ultraviolet radiation can significantly impact skin health. The risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage rises dramatically as the UV levels peak, especially during the midday hours when values soar to 10—indicating a very high risk. The climate in Xi'an, characterized by hot summers and cold winters (Dwb climate zone), further exacerbates UV exposure, making it essential to be aware of these levels for effective sun protection. Stay informed to safeguard your skin and enjoy the beautiful historic sites without the worry of excessive sun damage!
The hourly UV Index paints a clear picture of the day's intensity from morning to evening. Starting at a mild 3 at 7:00 AM, the day warms up quickly, peaking at a robust 10 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM—the perfect time to seek shelter or apply sunscreen. After that fleeting high, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 4 by 3:00 PM and further diminishing to 1 by 5:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV levels plummet to a safe 0 by 7:00 PM. This data underscores the importance of protecting your skin during peak hours, especially when the sun is at its strongest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk that visitors and residents should be aware of. From January to March, the index remains low to moderate, allowing for safer outdoor activities; however, as we move into April with a UV Index of 7, precautions should be taken as the risk escalates to high. The months of May through August present the highest risk, with UV Index values peaking at 10 in June and July, classifying these months as extremely hazardous for sun exposure, with a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. By September, the index drops to 7, indicating high risk again, before returning to moderate levels in the fall and winter months of October to December. Therefore, during May to August, it is crucial for individuals to protect themselves from UV radiation by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen frequently to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xi'an | 2 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| 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 |
| Shenzhen UVI | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |