UV Index in Golmud, China

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Golmud, China, where the arid BWk climate often leads to intense sun exposure. With UV levels peaking dramatically—reaching as high as 14 during midday—awareness of these levels is essential to protect against sunburn and long-term skin damage. By recognizing the daily fluctuations in ultraviolet radiation, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your skin health, ensuring you enjoy Golmud’s unique landscape without the risk of overexposure.

Hourly UV Index in Golmud

As the sun rises, the UV Index remains low at 1 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, providing a gentle start to the day. However, by 9:00 AM, the intensity climbs to 3, prompting early risers to pay some attention to sun exposure. The real heat kicks in by 10:00 AM, hitting 6, and by 11:00 AM, it peaks at a staggering 9. The afternoon brings the highest UV risk, soaring to an eye-watering 14 at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM, demanding vigilant sun protection. As the day winds down, the index starts to taper off, dropping to 6 by 5:00 PM and gradually falling to 1 by 7:00 PM. Always keep in mind to enjoy the sun safely during those peak 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	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	6	high	25 min
11:00	9	very high	15 min
12:00	12	extreme	10 min
13:00	14	extreme	10 min
14:00	14	extreme	10 min
15:00	12	extreme	10 min
16:00	9	very high	15 min
17:00	6	high	25 min
18:00	3	moderate	30 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Golmud

Throughout the year, UV Index levels show significant seasonal variation, with the highest risk occurring from March to September. During these months, the UV Index peaks at 14 in both May and June, indicating an extreme exposure category with a rapid burn time of only 10 minutes. Particularly, April through August are critical months where residents and visitors are strongly advised to take protective measures against UV radiation, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade. Conversely, during January and December, the UV Index drops to 4, marking a moderate risk level with burn times of 30 minutes. Those planning outdoor activities should stay vigilant, especially in the high-risk months, to safeguard their skin from potential harm.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Golmud, China

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Golmud. 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 Golmud, 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 Golmud UV Index with Other China Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Golmud 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.

Golmud'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
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
Golmud	4	6	9	11	14	14	13	13	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