UV INDEX
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. Developed by the National Weather Service and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the UV Index provides important information
to help you plan your outdoor activities to prevent overexposure to the sun's 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 0 to 10+, where
0 indicates a minimal risk of overexposure and
10+ means a very high risk. Calculated on a
next-day basis for dozens of cities across
the United States, the UV Index takes
UV Index Number
Oto2
3 to 4
5 to 6
7 to 9
10+
Exposure Level
Minimal
Low
Moderate
High
Very High
UJ
JD
'5.
(1)
w
8
LU
into account clouds and other local
conditions that affect the amount of UV
radiation reaching the ground in different
parts of the country.
By taking a few simple precautions, you can greatly
reduce your risk of sun-related illnesses. To be Sun Wise,
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 Sun Wise! For more information, call EPA's Stratospheric Ozone
Information Hotline at 800 296-1996, or visit our Web site at .
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