Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Baotou, China, as it plays a key role in protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. With exposure levels peaking at an intense 11 around midday, being aware of the UV index helps prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Baotou's semi-arid climate contributes to its unique UV profile, making knowledge of these levels even more vital for safely enjoying the sunny days. By staying informed about UV trends, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your skin and maintain your overall health in this vibrant city.
The UV index throughout the day reveals a dramatic rise in solar intensity. At 7:00 AM, it starts gently at 1, barely a concern for early risers. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 3, signaling a transition as the sun gains strength. 9:00 AM sees a noticeable jump to 5, urging sun seekers to take precautions. The peak arrives at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, where the UV index hits a scorching 11, making it imperative to seek shade and wear protection. As the afternoon progresses, numbers start to decline; 2:00 PM brings a still lofty 9, holding onto that midday heat. By 4:00 PM, it recedes to 5, gradually easing towards evening. Finally, as the day winds down, the index falls to 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe return outside. Stay sun smart!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index shows significant seasonal changes that require awareness from both visitors and residents. From January to February, the UV exposure remains in the moderate category (Index 3-4), allowing for a burn time of up to 30 minutes. However, as March approaches, the index climbs to high at 6, reducing safe exposure to 25 minutes. The months of April through August are crucial high-risk periods, with April and May classified as very high (UV Index 9-10), and June and July reaching extreme levels (UV Index 11), where safe exposure diminishes to just 10 minutes. The UV Index begins to taper off in September at 8 very high and October at 6 high, before descending to moderate in November (UV Index 3) and low in December (UV Index 2), where one can safely spend 45 minutes in the sun. To protect oneself during high-risk months, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and limit sun exposure, particularly during peak hours.
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 |
| Baotou | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 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 |