The sun is a powerful force of energy that is constantly releasing UV radiation, and if not minded can cause unexpected health concerns such as skin cancer, premature aging, cataracts, immune system suppression, and more. A UV index is a great tool to help people living anywhere around the country monitor potentially increasing levels of UV radiation that may result in skin damage, sun poisoning, or other serious health concerns during normal or special activities that take place outdoors. No matter where you live, UV exposure levels can change and fluctuate depending on anything from time of year and weather patterns, to atmospheric conditions and individual sensitivity, making it especially important for you to stay informed on daily UV radiation risks to ensure you and your family stay safe and healthy.
See today’s UV Index for North America >>
The U.S. National Weather Service monitors countless variables to determine a reliable mathematic formula to help them accurately predict risks of UV radiation overexposure in certain areas. They factor in everything from ranging elevations and cloud forecasts to stratospheric ozone concentration and human skin sensitivity for different places throughout the country, in an effort to create a consistent forecast that helps people in different areas avoid potentially harmful overexposure. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) then publishes and releases the information to the public along with suggestions for sun protection.
The UV index is a forecast map created daily by the National Weather Service that indicates on a scale the risks of overexposure anywhere in the country. The U.S. National Weather Service translates exposure risk into an easy to read system for the public using specific numbers that relate to corresponding colors on a map. A UV index forecast can be read by color with severity of risk ranging from 0 (low) -15 (extremely high):
- 0-1 indicated as royal blue
- 1-2 indicated as emerald green
- 2-3 indicated as pale green
- 3-4 indicated as yellow
- 4-5 indicated as pale orange
- 5-6 indicated as orange
- 6-7 indicated as burnt orange/orangey red
- 7-8 indicated as crimson red
- 8-9 indicated as burgundy red
- 9-10 indicated as magenta
- 10-11 indicated as purple
- 11-12 indicated as lavender
- 12-13 indicated as periwinkle
- 13-14 indicated as baby blue
- 14-15 indicated as icy blue
Just type your zip code into the search bar to see what color your state or town is now, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you’re keeping your family safe from the most harmful aspects of the sun. If you or someone you love is dealing with a arthritis diagnosis, get the level of care you deserve by calling Dr. James Dowd today at 1.810.225.7553 to get started, or or click here to make an appointment online.