Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Hong Kong, a vibrant city known for its sunny climate and high humidity. With the sun's rays reaching their peak at an index of 14 around noon, awareness of UV levels is essential for preventing sunburn and safeguarding skin health. By tracking the UV Index throughout the day, individuals can better plan outdoor activities and minimize the risk of UV-related harm. Given Hong Kong’s Cwa climate, where warm summers can result in intense sun exposure, staying informed about UV levels is not just beneficial—it's vital for protecting your skin while enjoying this beautiful locale.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting from a gentle 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to 3, signaling the need for increased sun protection. The intensity peaks dramatically at 12:00 with a scorching 14, marking the most hazardous sun exposure period of the day. Just before noon, at 11:00, the UV Index hits 12, a warning to stay in the shade. By 14:00, it begins its descent, dropping to 11 and continuing down to a mild 4 by 16:00. The evening brings relief as the index falls to 0 by 19:00, allowing for a safe outdoor experience as the sun sets. Stay aware and protect your skin during those peak hours to enjoy your day safely!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
15:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
17:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels typically occurring from March to October. During February to October, the UV Index often falls into the very high to extreme categories, with March to May peaking at an index of 14 in May. High-risk months are primarily from February (10) to October (11), where sunburn can occur in as little as 10 to 15 minutes of unprotected exposure. Residents and visitors are advised to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, especially during these high-risk months to minimize the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tung Chung UVI | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
Yuen Long Kau Hui UVI | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
Tsuen Wan UVI | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
Hong Kong | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |
Kowloon UVI | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 |