UV Index in Chengdu, China

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Chengdu, China, being aware of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding UV levels helps prevent sunburn and reduces the long-term risk of skin damage. With Chengdu's humid subtropical climate, residents and visitors alike experience significant UV exposure, particularly during the summer months. The UV Index often peaks at 11 around noon, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Stay informed and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the sunshine while keeping your skin safe!

Hourly UV Index in Chengdu

The UV Index throughout the day presents a clear peak in intensity around midday. Starting with a low of 1 at 07:00, it gradually increases, reaching 2 by 08:00. The sun’s rays grow more potent as the day progresses, hitting 4 at 09:00, followed by a notable rise to 6 by 10:00. The intensity continues to escalate, peaking at an impressive 11 between 12:00 and 14:00, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index decreases, falling to 9 at 15:00, and further dropping to 3 by 17:00, before tapering off to 1 by 19:00. It's essential to stay protected during those peak hours to enjoy the sun safely!

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
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:009very high15 min
12:0011extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:009very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Chengdu

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chengdu, China

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Chengdu. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec568101211111110854
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Chengdu, 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 Chengdu UV Index with Other China Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chengdu 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.
Chengdu's solar exposure compared to other cities in China. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Beijing UVI2358991097642
Chengdu568101211111011864
Shanghai UVI568101011121111864
Guangzhou UVI79111213131312111097
Shenzhen UVI710121214131313121197