Understanding the UV index and sun protection

Back here now, warmer temperatures and sunshine are on the way, which means protecting yourself from harsh rays. TWNCH News Storm Team Meteorologist Alexa Bianco is here to explain the UV index. Yes, Christina and CR, it's important to check the UV index before heading outdoor for any plans. Even on days that don't feel especially hot, the sun's ultraviolet rays are still strong enough to cause skin damage. As we head into summer, understanding the UV index can help The UV index pretty much is a forecasting tool that we use to give people an idea of, you know, overexposure when it comes to sunlight, sunburn and health on your skin, and UV obviously standing for ultraviolet radiation. The UV index has levels. It goes from 1 being the lowest to 11 being the highest. In extreme cases, it can go even higher. When the UV is 6 or higher, there's an increased risk of sunburn, and using sunscreen will help protect your skin. The sun's angle changes throughout the day due to Earth's rotation, affecting the UV intensity, especially in the warmer months. Come June, July, August is when the sun is usually at its highest angle in the sky, so that's when we start to see those UV index get above a 6. But in the wintertime, UV index is not something we talk about because it's not a risk to you. The sun angle is low, and so the UV index is low. I know we like to get a tan and enjoy the sunshine, but it's also important to wear sunscreen. Working for you, Storm Team Meteorologist Alexa Bianco.