UV Index in China, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In China, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. With the country's Cfa climate, which boasts hot summers and significant sun exposure, understanding UV levels throughout the day becomes essential. As the UV Index peaks between 10 AM and 2 PM, reaching a high of 12, it's vital to take precautions during these hours to protect yourself against harmful UV radiation. By keeping track of the UV Index, residents and visitors alike can enjoy outdoor activities while safeguarding their skin from potential damage.

Hourly UV Index in China

The UV Index on this day demonstrates a clear peak in intensity from mid-morning to early afternoon. Starting at a low 1 at 07:00, the index gradually rises, reaching 3 by 09:00. However, it isn't until 12:00 that we hit an impressive peak of 10, signaling a potent midday sun. The 13:00 mark sees the highest value of 12, indicating a significant risk for skin exposure. As the afternoon progresses, numbers begin to wane, dropping to 9 at 15:00 and further down to 2 by 18:00. The day concludes with a gentle decline, returning to 1 by 19:00, showcasing the cyclical nature of UV exposure throughout the hours. Stay protected during those critical hours!

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
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:008very high15 min
12:0010very high15 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:009very high15 min
16:007high25 min
17:004moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in China

As the seasons change, so do the UV Index levels, significantly affecting the risk of skin damage from sun exposure. January and December have a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. However, by February, the UV levels escalate to 8, marking the beginning of very high exposure with a reduced burn time of 15 minutes. The risk peaks in the summer months, particularly April through August, where the UV Index reaches a maximum of 12, classified as extreme, necessitating protective measures within just 10 minutes. September and October see a slight decline to very high levels of 10 and 9, respectively, while November cools to a high risk of 7 with a burn time of 25 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take precautions during the high-risk months of February to August, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during peak sun hours, to minimize sun damage and maintain skin health.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for China, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in China. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec589111212121110975
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for China, 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 China UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in China compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
China's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
China589111112121110975
Houston UVI589111112121110975