High UV index on the Ostalb: How to protect yourself from sunburn!

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Current UV index on the Ostalb is high – protective measures against sunburn are now important. Tips for safe sun enjoyment.

Aktueller UV-Index auf der Ostalb hoch – Schutzmaßnahmen gegen Sonnenbrand sind jetzt wichtig. Tipps für sicheren Sonnengenuss.
Current UV index on the Ostalb is high – protective measures against sunburn are now important. Tips for safe sun enjoyment.

High UV index on the Ostalb: How to protect yourself from sunburn!

The UV index on the Ostalb is currently high, which significantly increases the risk of sunburn. The UV index is a measure of the intensity of ultraviolet radiation and is classified into five categories by the German Weather Service (DWD): from no or low danger (0 to 2) to extreme values ​​(from 11). The solar UV measurement network in Germany records these values ​​at over 40 locations, including cities such as Stuttgart, Tuttlingen and Freiburg. According to schwaebische-post.de, people who are frequently active outdoors are particularly at risk.

When the UV index is high, appropriate sun protection measures are essential. These include using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, wearing coverings such as hats or sunglasses, and seeking shade. These precautions are particularly important because the UV index also depends on various factors such as the season and geographical location. According to sonnenbrand-tipps.de, protective measures should vary depending on the current UV index level.

Recommended protective measures

With a UV index of 6 to 7 it is advisable to take protective measures, while with values ​​of 8 to 10 protection is absolutely necessary. For a very high UV index of 11 or more, it is important to stay in the shade if possible. You should also avoid direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

  • 0-2: kein Schutz erforderlich
  • 3-5: Schutz empfehlenswert, LSF mindestens doppelt so hoch wie UV Index
  • 6-7: Schutz erforderlich, LSF mindestens doppelt so hoch
  • 8-10: Schutz dringend nötig, LSF über 15
  • 11+: Schutz ist ein Muss, LSF über 15

Reflection from bright surfaces such as water or snow can increase the intensity of UV radiation, meaning the actual risk of sunburn may be higher than the stated value. Children's skin in particular is more sensitive, and therefore an SPF of at least 25 is recommended for children. A rule of thumb is that the SPF for children should be about five times the UV index.

Sunburns are not just a short-term problem, but can cause long-term skin damage, premature aging and even skin cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that protective measures are mandatory if the UV index is 3 or more. Therefore, everyone who spends a lot of time outdoors should heed the current warnings and protect themselves accordingly.