Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Lop, China, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. As a locality within the BWk climate zone, Lop experiences significant UV exposure, especially during peak hours, where the UV Index can soar to as high as 11 around noon. Understanding these UV levels not only empowers residents and visitors to make informed decisions about outdoor activities but also highlights the importance of protective measures against harmful rays. With the sun shining brightly, knowing when to seek shade or wear protective gear can make all the difference in enjoying Lop's beautiful landscapes while keeping skin safe.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb, starting at a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it jumps to 3, signaling an increase in sun intensity. The real peak arrives as the clock strikes 11:00 with a robust 10, continuing to soar to a maximum of 11 at 12:00, where caution is advised—especially for those spending extended time outdoors. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, with the index lowering to 8 at 15:00, before dropping to 3 by 17:00. As the day winds down, the UV levels retreat to 1 from 18:00 onward, concluding a day of fluctuating sun exposure. To enjoy the outdoors safely, be mindful of those midday hours when sun protection is paramount!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 11 | 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 |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal variations, highlighting critical changes as the year progresses. High-risk months for UV exposure are March through August, with peak levels ranging from 11 (extreme) in May, June, July, and August, to 10 (very high) in April. During these months, the recommended burn time decreases sharply to 10-15 minutes, indicating a higher risk of skin damage. To protect yourself, it's advisable for both visitors and residents to wear protective clothing, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV radiation is strongest. In the cooler months of January, February, November, and December, the UV Index drops to 3-4 (moderate), allowing for more time in the sun without immediate risk. Nonetheless, protection is always recommended to maintain skin health year-round.
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 |
| Lop | 3 | 4 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 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 |