[Objective] The objective of this study is to improve the RUSLE (revised universal soil loss equation) model for its using in the southern red soil area in order to provide scientific basis for soil erosion control in Changting County of Fujian Province. [Methods] Based on RUSLE model and combined with GIS and RS technologies, we assessed the soil and water loss in Changting County. The rainfall erosion factors were calculated by a new developed method. The remaining factors that were used in RUSLE model were derived by improving or using the existing methods. [Results] A map of soil erosion intensity grades distribution in 2013 was obtained by an empirical research. The results show that soil erosion in Changting County has been improved in 2013, but still serious. The dominated types of erosion were slight and moderate loss. The area most affected by soil erosion was Hetian, Cewu, Zhuotian and Sanzhou Township. [Conclusion] To reduce the human activities and increase the vegetation coverage are the main effective measures for erosion control in the future.