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What is the UV
Index?
Some exposure to sunlight can be enjoyable; however, too much could be
dangerous. Overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause
immediate effects such as sunburn and long-term problems such as skin
cancer and cataracts. The UV Index, which was developed by the National Weather Service and the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities
to prevent overexposure to the suns rays.
The UV Index provides a daily forecast of the expected risk of overexposure
to the sun. The Index predicts UV intensity levels on a scale of 1 to
11+, where low indicates a minimal risk of overexposure and 11+ means an extreme risk. Calculated on a next-day basis for every ZIP code across
the United States, the UV Index takes into account clouds and other local
conditions that affect the amount of UV radiation reaching the ground
in different parts of the country.
UV Index Number |
Exposure Level |
0 to 2 |
Low |
3 to 5 |
Moderate |
6 to 8 |
High |
8 to 10 |
Very High |
11+ |
Extreme |
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By taking a few simple precautions, you can greatly reduce your risk
of sun-related illnesses. To be Be SunWise, consider the following
steps:
- Limit your time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Whenever possible, seek shade.
- Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and if possible, tightly woven, full-length
clothing.
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses.
- Avoid sunlamps and tanning salons.
- Watch for the UV Index daily.
While you should always take precautions against overexposure to the
sun, please take special care to adopt the safeguards when the UV Index
predicts levels of moderate or above. Watch for UV Index reports in your
local newspapers and on television, and remember to be SunWise! For more information, or to check your local forecast, visit our website at <www.epa.gov/sunwise/>.
[May 2004; EPA430-H-99-001]
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