Last updated: August 1, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Shuimogou, China, where the arid BSk climate can lead to elevated UV exposure levels. Awareness of UV levels can significantly impact sunburn prevention and overall skin health, helping individuals make informed decisions about sun safety. With the UV Index peaking at 10 during midday hours, it is essential to take precautions to minimize risks of skin damage and long-term health issues. By staying informed, you can enjoy the sun safely while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
At dawn, the UV Index starts modestly at 2 at 7:00 AM. As the sun rises, the intensity quickly climbs, reaching 4 by 8:00 AM and peaking at an impressive 10 between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. This period demands caution, as the midday sun delivers its strongest rays. By 2:00 PM, there's a slight decline to 9, which continues to taper off through the afternoon. As the day winds down, the UV Index drops to 6 at 3:00 PM and further down to 4 by 4:00 PM. The evening brings relief, with levels declining to 2 by 5:00 PM and settling at a comfortable 1 from 6:00 PM onward. Keep this trend in mind for safe sun exposure!
| 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 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so does the UV Index, impacting sun exposure and skin safety. January and December see a low UV Index of 2, allowing for safer outdoor activities with a burn time of 45 minutes. However, as we progress into February, the UV Index rises to 4 (moderate), with a burn time reduced to 30 minutes. The risk escalates sharply from March to April, where the UV Index reaches 6 (high) and 8 (very high), respectively, demanding more vigilant sun protection. The peak months of May through August experience extreme UV levels of 10 and 9, requiring minimized sun exposure with a mere 15 minutes burn time. After August, the risk gradually decreases, with September at 7 (high) and October at 5 (moderate). During the fall and winter months, residents and visitors should remain cautious but can enjoy the sun safely with proper precautions, especially during high-risk months of April through August. Always apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours to minimize UV exposure.
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 |
| Shuimogou | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 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 |
| 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 |