The UV index, which measures the potential danger of UV overexposure on a scale from 0 (minimal risk) to 11+ (very high risk), showed that UV radiation levels in Gran Canaria reached 12 earlier this year
Anyone thinking about heading to the Canary Islands is being warned of an ‘extreme risk’ affecting the Spanish region.
The islands frequently record very high levels of UV radiation, which can be dangerous and lead to severe health issues. Elevated UV levels were noted earlier this year. At the time an ultraviolet radiation forecast from the country’s national weather agency, AEMET, also indicates that this trend is likely to continue.
The UV index, which measures the potential danger of UV overexposure on a scale from 0 (minimal risk) to 11+ (very high risk), showed that UV radiation levels in Gran Canaria reached 12 earlier this year. In addition, the other islands peaked at 11, as reported by the Express reported.
Eduardo García-Ramos, a Public Health Directorate technician and coordinator of the UV Radiation Preventive Action Plan, noted that the Canary Islands often experience UV levels comparable to those in tropical regions. He told Canarian Weekly: “UV radiation is increasingly penetrating the Earth’s surface.” Climate change is believed to be exacerbating the situation by impacting the ozone layer, which partially absorbs UV radiation.
Authorities are now warning that people should protect themselves from UV radiation year-round, as the Canaries can see levels hitting 10 or 11 even in winter. Levels between eight and 10 are classified as ‘very high risk’ for health, while levels of 11 and above are deemed ‘extreme risk’ according to scales developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other health organisations.
UK tourists planning to visit the Canary Islands should remain vigilant when extreme UV radiation levels are forecasted. Health authorities recommend avoiding outdoor activities around midday when the sun’s rays are strongest. It’s also advisable to cover up with clothing and apply sunscreen, especially when UV levels exceed eight.
The WHO stated: “Encouraging people to reduce their sun exposure can decrease harmful health effects and significantly reduce health care costs.” Overexposure to high UV levels can lead to serious health problems, including severe sunburn, eye conditions such as cataracts, and skin cancer.
