Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial in Xihong Shanzi, China, where the climate tends to be classified as BSk, characterized by hot summers and significant sun exposure. Being aware of UV levels is vital for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health, especially during peak hours when the index reaches a maximum of 11 between noon and 1 PM. With typical exposure risks heightened due to clear skies and intense sunlight, a keen understanding of the UV Index can help residents and visitors in Xihong Shanzi enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting their skin from harmful effects.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, but it quickly escalates as the day progresses. By 10:00 AM, the index reaches 7, signaling a significant increase in UV radiation. The peak occurs at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, when it hits a striking 11, indicating very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually declines, settling at 8 by 3:00 PM, then tapering off to 1 again by 7:00 PM. It's clear that midday is the time for caution—make sure to protect your skin during those hours!
| 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 | 10 | 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 |
Throughout the year, UV levels experience significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. January and December have a low UV Index of 2, allowing for longer exposure times without risk of burning (45 minutes). As spring approaches, February sees a moderate increase (UV Index 4, 30 minutes burn time) and by March, the UV Index rises to 6 (high), reducing safe exposure to 25 minutes. The period from April to August is particularly critical, with UV levels reaching their highest at 11 for three consecutive months, which corresponds to an extreme exposure category and a burn time of just 10 minutes. September declines slightly but remains in the very high category with a UV Index of 8. October and November see further reduction, dropping to moderate levels (UV Index 4, 30 minutes) and then back to low by December. To ensure safety, visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during April to August by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen to mitigate the higher risk of skin damage during these months.
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 |
| Xihong Shanzi | 2 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 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 |