The UV index forecasts the intensity of ultraviolet (UV) light for
any given day. The index helps people know what precautions to take to avoid
sunburn or other skin damage from being in the sun too long.
The UV index is listed on the weather page of many daily
newspapers. Sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen, should always
be taken when the UV index is 5 or above. The UV index is measured on a scale
of 0 to 10+.
- 0 to 2: Minimal exposure to UV rays is
expected for that day. Most people can stay in the sun for up to 1 hour during
the hours of the day when the sun's rays are strongest, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- 3 to 4: Low exposure is expected for that day. Fair-skinned people
may sunburn in less than 20 minutes of sun exposure.
- 5 to 6:
Moderate exposure is expected for that day. Fair-skinned people may sunburn in
less than 15 minutes of sun exposure.
- 7 to 9: High exposure is
expected for that day. Fair-skinned people may sunburn in less than 10 minutes
of sun exposure.
- 10+: Very high exposure is expected for that day.
Fair-skinned people may sunburn in less than 5 minutes of sun exposure.
