The Ultraviolet Index (UV Index) is a measurement of the intensity of the sun’s rays. The higher the UV index, the more harm done by the sun to your skin, eyes, and immune system.
The UV rays are present even when it does not feel hot outside or it is cloudy. The UV index is available daily as a way to advise people of the sun’s intensity for that day. When you know the UV index, you can prepare and adjust your activities accordingly and practice sun safety to reduce receiving UV radiation from the sun.
In Canada, between April and September the UV Index is usually 3 or higher between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. It is at this level that you need to protect your skin. UVR that is in the sun rays is harmful to the eyes all year round and throughout the day. Be sure to check Windsor’s current weather and UV index daily. The UV Index is included whenever it is forecasted to reach 3 (moderate) or more that day. Unprotected skin will be damaged and burn in minutes when the UV Index is 11+ (extreme). Damaged skin (tanned skin, sunburns) can lead to skin cancer.
Did You Know?: Damaging UV rays also come from artificial tanning sources (beds, lamps). Don’t be fooled indoor tanning is not a safe tanning alternative. There is no such thing as a safe tan. A tan represents skin damage.