Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Shanxi, China, where the climate can rapidly elevate UV exposure levels. With the region's continental climate (Dwa), it’s important to be aware of fluctuating UV values throughout the day to prevent skin damage and maintain overall skin health. Particularly during the hours of peak sun exposure—like the midday maximum of 11—even short outings can lead to sunburn. By staying informed about UV levels, you can take proactive measures, safeguarding your skin while enjoying Shanxi’s vibrant outdoor life.
The UV Index paints a vivid picture of the sun’s strength throughout the day. Starting at a modest 2 at 07:00, the index gradually climbs as the sun ascends, reaching 4 by 08:00. By 09:00, it spikes to 6, and before long, it peaks at an impressive 11 at 12:00, marking the most intense exposure. The afternoon starts to cool slightly, with the index dropping to 10 by 13:00 and then tapering off through 8 at 14:00, 6 at 15:00, and back to 4 at 16:00. As the sun begins its descent, the UV Index falls to 2 by 17:00, lingering at 1 through the evening hours, creating a gentle reminder to enjoy the sun but also to stay mindful of its intensity during peak hours.
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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 9 | 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 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels change significantly, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. The high-risk months are from April to July, where the UV Index reaches its peak at 11 in July, classified as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. In April and May, the UV Index is 8, tagged as very high, allowing for only 15 minutes of exposure before burning begins. Conversely, during January and December, the UV Index remains low at 2, offering a safe burn time of 45 minutes. As such, it's crucial for visitors and residents to take extra precautions during high UV periods, such as seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen to minimize skin damage. Stay vigilant from March through September to ensure safe sun exposure practices.
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 |
Shanxi | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 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 |