Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Zhonghe, China, where the subtropical climate brings both beauty and risk. With peak UV levels soaring to 14 during midday hours, awareness of these fluctuations can play a vital role in sunburn prevention and overall skin health. As UV exposure increases significantly in the late morning and early afternoon, being informed empowers you to take necessary precautions—like applying sunscreen or seeking shade. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from the potential hazards of the sun's rays in this vibrant city!
The UV Index is a crucial indicator of sun exposure throughout the day, and today it tells a compelling story. Starting off gently at 1 by 07:00, the sun gradually intensifies, reaching 3 by 09:00. As the clock strikes 10:00, the index soars to 6, but it’s not until 11:00 that we hit the first peak of 10. The heat tops out at an impressive 14 at 13:00, showcasing the day's maximum sun intensity. Following this zenith, the index begins to decline, settling back to 11 by 15:00, before descending further to 2 by 18:00 and winding down to 1 as the day closes. To enjoy the sun safely during peak hours, remember to take protective measures when the UV Index reaches its highest levels!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 15:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 16:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 17:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV radiation displays significant seasonal variation. January and December start the year with a UV Index of 7, categorized as high, necessitating a burn time of 25 minutes under direct sunlight. As the year progresses, February reaches a UV Index of 9 (very high) with a shorter burn time of 15 minutes, escalating dramatically from March to October where the UV Index hits its peak at 15 during the summer months. This period is classified as extreme, with a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. September and October begin to taper slightly but still remain in the extreme range, with October at 12. Finally, November reduces again to 9. For visitors and residents, it is crucial to be particularly vigilant between February and October, when UV levels are at their highest. Protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and seeking shade should be prioritized during these high-risk months, especially between 11 AM and 4 PM when the sun’s rays are 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 |
| 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 |
| Zhonghe | 7 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 |