Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Chengdu, China, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and health. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, especially in a city characterized by a humid subtropical climate (Cwa) that can lead to unexpectedly high UV exposure. With peak UV Index readings reaching as high as 12 during midday, residents and visitors alike should be vigilant about sun safety practices, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when the risk is greatest. Stay protected and enjoy the vibrant sun-soaked days in Chengdu while keeping your skin healthy!
The UV Index reveals a fascinating journey through the day, peaking dramatically as the sun reaches its zenith. Starting off with a mild index of 1 at 07:00, it gradually climbs, reaching 2 by 08:00. As the morning unfolds, the intensity surges, with a notable jump to 4 at 09:00, and skyrocketing to a striking 11 by 12:00. The highest level of 12 is recorded at 13:00, indicating the critical hour for sun exposure, before a gradual decline begins. By 14:00, it dips to 10, followed by a steady drop to 8 at 15:00, and continues to decrease into the evening. The UV Index settles back down to 1 by 18:00, tapering off into the night. It's a stark reminder of the sun's powerful influence, emphasizing the importance of sun safety during peak hours.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 8 | very high | 15 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 exhibits significant seasonal changes, peaking during the late spring and summer months. January and December show moderate UV levels (Index 5 and 4, respectively), allowing for more extended exposure times of up to 30 minutes without risk of burning. However, as we move into February (Index 6, high) and especially March (Index 8, very high), the risk increases sharply, with burn times decreasing to 25 minutes and 15 minutes, respectively. The highest risk occurs from April to September, where the UV Index reaches extremes of 10 to 12, which means a burn time of just 10 minutes under direct sunlight. Visitors and residents should take necessary precautions during these high-risk months—particularly from May to August—by wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen, while seeking shade during peak hours to minimize exposure and prevent skin damage. As autumn approaches, October and November herald a drop in UV levels, allowing for more safe outdoor activities with increased burn times.
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 |
| Chengdu | 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 |