UV Index in Nanjing, China

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Nanjing, China, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps you take proactive steps to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With its humid subtropical climate, Nanjing experiences significant UV exposure, particularly during midday hours when the index can soar to dangerous levels of 13. Being informed about the UV Index allows you to enjoy the sun responsibly, ensuring that you and your loved ones stay protected from intense rays while enjoying the vibrant outdoors.

Hourly UV Index in Nanjing

The UV Index showcases a dynamic increase throughout the day, peaking at 13 around 12:00 PM. Starting from a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM, the index steadily climbs as the sun ascends, reaching 6 by 9:00 AM. The intensity becomes palpable by 11:00 AM with a sharp rise to 12, before hitting its zenith at 13 at noon, prompting caution for outdoor activities. As the afternoon unfolds, the levels begin to decline, dipping to 10 by 2:00 PM and gradually falling to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling safer conditions for evening strolls. It’s essential to stay protected during the midday hours when the sun's rays are most intense!

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:003moderate30 min
09:006high25 min
10:009very high15 min
11:0012extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:007high25 min
16:004moderate30 min
17:002low45 min
18:001low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Nanjing

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the summer months. January starts with a high exposure category (UV Index 7) and a burn time of 25 minutes, but by February, the index rises to 9, indicating very high risk with a reduced burn time of 15 minutes. The spring months, particularly March and April, see the index escalate to 12 (extreme risk), where burn times drop to 10 minutes. This trend continues into the summer, with May through August maintaining an extreme index of 13. September witnesses a slight decrease to 12 before dropping to 10 in October (very high), with November at 8 (very high) and December returning to 7 (high) with longer burn times of 25 minutes. Notably, the high-risk months are from February to September, when the UV exposure is particularly intense. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions during these months, including wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of overexposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Nanjing, China

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Nanjing. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79121213131313121087
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Nanjing, 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 Nanjing UV Index with Other China Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Nanjing 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.
Nanjing's solar exposure compared to other cities in China. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Beijing UVI2358991097642
Chengdu UVI568101211111011864
Shanghai UVI568101011121111864
Guangzhou UVI79111213131312111097
Nanjing79121213131313121087
Shenzhen UVI710121214131313121197