S’pore UV Index on 15 May Consistently Between “High” & “Very High”

If you felt like you were baking under the sun in the past few days, you’re not alone.

The entirety of Singapore felt like the insides of an oven on 15 May (Monday), with the ultraviolet (UV) index consistently between “High” and “Very High” levels.

Here’s what these levels mean for us and how to protect ourselves from the sun.

Intensity of UV Rays 

The Singapore Meteorological Agency’s website shows an hourly UV index, split into different levels according to its intensity. The higher the number, the greater the potential damage to the skin and eyes.

Levels six to seven are “High”, and eight to ten are “Very High”. 11 and above would cross into “Extremely High” territory.

On 15 May, the UV index reached level eight at 11.45 am and peaked at level ten at about 1 pm. It then fell back to level seven at 2.45 pm. These levels are in the “High” or “Very High” categories.

Despite the intensity of these labels, it isn’t any cause to start panicking. The UV index for Singapore is usually higher since we are on the equator. This is especially so from February to April and September when there are fewer clouds or the sun is directly above the equator.

“Very High” or even “Extremely High” levels of UV are often seen during those times, especially between 11 am to 3 pm.

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Avoid Going Outdoors, or Use Sunscreen 

Doctors have advised people to avoid outdoor exposure from 10 am to 4 pm, when the sun is at its highest, and the UV rays are the strongest.

If you go out, try to use sunscreen with at least SPF50 protection to protect you from sunburns. You should put on sunscreen 30 minutes before going out.

Even if you’re staying at home, you should put on sunscreen anyways since UV rays passing through the windows could still lead to skin damage. As a bonus, you’ll also protect yourself from the blue light emitted by your phones and laptops!

If you hate the feeling of sunscreen, you could also wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective clothing. Alternatively, take a leaf from the aunties’ books and carry an umbrella to shield you from the sun.

Other hazards that come with prolonged exposure to UV rays include skin irritation, blisters, skin pigmentation, eczema, and even skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis in the United States – but it is also the most preventable with the above actions!