Last updated: May 3, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Yuanshanzi, China, a region characterized by its semi-arid climate (BSk), where sun exposure can vary dramatically throughout the day. Understanding UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and protecting skin health, especially as UV index readings can peak at an intense 10 around noon. With this understanding, you can enjoy outdoor activities safely while safeguarding your skin from harmful effects. Be proactive and aware, as even moderate levels can pose risks—especially during the height of sunlight when exposure is greatest!
The UV Index throughout the day displays a distinct pattern of increasing and decreasing intensity. Starting at a modest 2 at 07:00, the index gradually rises, reaching a moderate level of 3 by 08:00. However, the sun really begins to shine at 09:00, skyrocketing to a notable 5. By 10:00, it hits 7, and between 11:00 and 12:00, we experience the peak UV Index of 10, where sun safety becomes essential! After the zenith at 13:00, the numbers begin their descent, dropping to 8 by 14:00 and then tapering off further to 6 at 15:00. As the afternoon fades, the UV Index dwindles to a soft 4 at 16:00, before settling to a gentle 2 at 17:00 and finally a low 1 for the evening hours, signifying the day's retreat into twilight. Remember to prioritize sun protection during the peak hours when the sun's rays are most intense!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 2 | 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 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | 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 |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, which significantly impacts sun safety. In January and December, the UV Index is relatively low (2), allowing for extended exposure of about 45 minutes without risk of burn. However, as spring approaches in March and peaks in April and May, the index rises to high (6) and very high (9-10), with burn times decreasing to 25-15 minutes. The summer months of June and July reach an extreme UV Index of 11, necessitating urgent precautions with burn times dropping to just 10 minutes. August and September maintain high levels, while October and November see a gradual decline back to moderate levels (4). Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from March through September, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.
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 |
| Yuanshanzi | 2 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 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 |