UV Index
How Strong is the Sun Today?
The strength of UV can vary significantly based on a number of factors including:
- Time of year
- Time of day
- Latitude
- Cloud cover
- Altitude
- Stratospheric ozone level
Many animals and insects can see or sense ultraviolet radiation but we humans cannot.
Fortunately, the UV Index gives us a good idea of the UV intensity at our location on a given day. All we need to do is to check the UV Index level.
UV Index Scale
The strength of UV directly correlates with the risk of sunburn and skin damage. The level ranges from 1 to 11+ and the higher the level, the greater the risk.
Using color coding of the UV Index (UVI) levels, the risks are arranged into five groups:
Track the UV Index
People tend to associate sunburn risk with the temperature. Often on the local news, the announcer will advise, “It’s going to be hot today so don’t forget your sunscreen.”
While it’s true that most hot days occur when UV levels are high, it’s surprising how high the level can get in the spring while the temperature is still quite comfortable.
Because we can’t sense strong UV on our own, it’s important to be aware of the forecast.
The EPA provides a nice app where you can easily check the level by entering your zip code.
Search for this logo and download the app!
When To Be Careful
When the UV Index is low, Level 1 or 2, the need for sun protection is minimal.
At levels of 5 or higher, take it seriously and employ all the standard precautions to cover up with long clothing and a hat, generously apply broad spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin, wear UV blocking sunglasses, and seek shade.
When the level is 10 or 11+, be extremely careful. Try to avoid being in the sun between 10 am and 4 pm, and don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or whenever it might have come off by sweating, swimming, towel drying, etc.
UV Index Awareness
We advocate for public announcement of the UV Index when the level reaches 5 or higher. It should be a standard feature of any local weather report and should be announced daily in schools.
Please contact your local news source and school to request that they regularly report the UV Index, especially when the level reaches 5 or higher. If they already do, please let them know how much you appreciate it and encourage them to continue.
