Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Guwei, China, where the sun can be particularly intense due to its Cwa climate. As UV levels peak sharply from late morning to early afternoon, awareness can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. With maximum UV Index readings soaring to 11 during midday, knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential for maintaining skin health and overall well-being. Being informed about these UV levels not only protects you but also empowers you to enjoy the sunny days while minimizing risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a gentle 1 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to a moderate 3, signaling an increase in sun exposure. The peak arrives between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, hitting a striking 11, where protective measures are essential. As the afternoon rolls in, the index gradually declines, dipping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then down to 5 by 4:00 PM. As the day winds down, it returns to a safe 1 by 6:00 PM, wrapping up a day marked by a significant solar intensity that calls for vigilance during the peak hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | 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 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk for residents and visitors. January and February present moderate exposure with UV Index values of 4 and 5 respectively, allowing roughly 30 minutes of sun exposure before the risk of burning increases. As spring approaches, March's UV Index climbs to 7 (high) with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes, leading into April's peak of 9 (very high), where just 15 minutes of sun can cause damage. The summer months, particularly May and June, reach an extreme level of 11, necessitating precautionary measures within just 10 minutes of sun exposure. Even in July and August, while slightly lower at 10, the risk remains very high, and sun protection is crucial. As fall sets in, September and October maintain a very high risk with an index of 8, allowing 15 minutes before risking burns. The year concludes with November and December returning to moderate levels of 5 and 3 respectively, enabling longer exposure times of 30 minutes once more. Visitors and residents are highly encouraged to adopt sun safety practices—using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially from March through October when UV levels are the most intense.
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 |
| Guwei | 4 | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 3 |
| 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 |