Uv index what is

UV levels are affected by a number of factors including geographic location, altitude, time of day, time of year and cloud cover. This means that UV levels are higher in some parts of Australia than others even on the same day. It tells you the times during the day that you need to be SunSmart. Sun protection times are issued by the Bureau of Meteorology when the UV Index is forecast to reach 3 or above. At that level, it can damage your skin and lead to skin cancer.

Sunscreen should be incorporated into your daily routine on these days. The Index is reported in the weather page of all Australian daily newspapers, on the Bureau of Meteorology website , and on some radio and mobile weather forecasts. For smartphone users, our free SunSmart app is a great way to check the UV Index when you are out and about. So whether you are at work, home or on the move, you can easily and quickly check the times of the day when sun protection is needed.

There is a huge variation in UV levels across Australia. The UV level is affected by a number of factors including the time of day, time of year, cloud cover, altitude, proximity to the equator, scattering and reflection. Take away the guesswork by adding the free SunSmart widget to your website. Note: The recommendations apply for the daily maximum level of the UV Index when skies are cloudless. Caution: UV exposure on snow, water and at the beach lucid sand areas may be higher than the predicted maximum UV Index for that day.

Special attention should therefore be paid to sufficient sun protection in such situations. The UV Index is based either on values measured at ground level or on satellite measurement data of the UV irradiance. In the latter case, the UV Index is calculated, i. The UV Index can also be presented as a variable quantity over the day. In this case, the actually measured daily increasing and decreasing erythemal UV irradiance is displayed as UV Index. The index was created by a Canadian scientist in and then modified by the World Health Organization working alongside the United Nations World Meteorological Organization in People residing in these provinces should exercise extreme caution and be sure to avoid going outdoors between the hours of — because exposure to a mere 15—20 minutes of sunlight during this time could cause sunburn and other long-term issues, such as eye disorders and skin cancer.

This is especially important for infants and adults with dermatological issues or an allergy to sunlight. We should all avoid going outdoors between the hours of — However, if going outside is unavoidable, be sure to protect the long-term health of your skin and eyes with a hat, UV resistant sunglasses, suitable clothing, and an umbrella.

If the skin is burnt to the extent that it is hot to the touch, basic first aid involves applying an after-sun gel that consists of ingredients designed to reduce irritation. The gel should be applied every morning and evening until symptoms improve. Sunburn prevention is best. Always check the sun protection times on the free SunSmart app and use a combination of sun protection measures when required. UV also causes skin sagging, blotchiness and roughness.

Photosensitivity is extreme sensitivity of the skin or eyes to UV radiation. This means the skin can burn more easily, increasing your risk of skin cancer.

Photosensitivity is caused by ingesting, inhaling or skin contact with photosensitisers — substances that cause photosensitivity. Photosensitisers include industrial chemicals, drugs, plants and some essential oils and fragrances. Some medications can also cause photosensitivity. Check with your doctor or pharmacist, as alternate medication may be available. Information on substances which cause photosensitivity can be found in the Guide on exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation UVR from Safe Work Australia.

What is UV?