UV Index in Changsha, China

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Changsha, China, where sun exposure can vary dramatically throughout the day. Awareness of UV levels plays a vital role in preventing sunburns and promoting long-term skin health, especially given Changsha's humid subtropical climate. With peak UV Index values reaching up to 10 during midday, it’s essential to take protective measures to mitigate skin damage. As you navigate the vibrant city, keeping an eye on the UV Index will help safeguard your skin from the sun's harmful rays while enjoying the beautiful outdoor scenery.

Hourly UV Index in Changsha

At sunrise, the UV Index starts at a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to a moderate 4 by 8:00 AM. As the day progresses, the sun's intensity peaks with a striking 10 at both 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By 1:00 PM, the index remains strong at 9, but starts to decline to 7 by 2:00 PM. Early afternoon light gives way to a safer environment as the index sinks to 5 at 3:00 PM, then further drops to 3 by 4:00 PM. As the sun sets, the UV Index descends into the low range, resting at 1 by 5:00 PM and tapering off to 0 after 7:00 PM—a clear reminder to protect your skin during those peak sun hours!

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	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	6	high	25 min
10:00	8	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	5	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Changsha

Throughout the year, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal changes, particularly peaking during the summer months. From June to August, the UV Index reaches extreme levels (11 to 12), with burn times as short as 10 minutes, indicating the highest risk for sunburn and skin damage. March to May also shows very high levels (8 to 10), where the burn time decreases to 15 minutes. The risk begins to decline in September and continues through November, transitioning back to moderate levels in January and December. Residents and visitors should take extra precautions, especially from March through August, by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize UV exposure.

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
Changsha	4	6	8	10	10	11	12	11	10	8	6	4
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