Experts are sounding the alarm over the hotter-than-average weather making its way across the US – warning that exposure to these temperatures could lead to life-threatening health complications.
The US is currently experiencing a ‘heat dome, which occurs when the atmosphere traps hot air over certain areas like a lid on a pot.
It’s ripping through the Midwest and Northeast, with temperatures expected to reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit – and at temperatures this high, deadly heat stroke could strike in under 15 minutes
But temperature is only one part of the equation – the UV index is also important.
The ultraviolet index is a measurement of the strength of sunburn-producing UV radiation – it indicates how strong the sun’s UV rays are. The higher the index, the stronger the rays.
Zero to two indicates there is minimal danger from the sun, but an index of just three to five is considered risky and people are advised to wear sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and sun-protective clothing.
At a six or seven, there is moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Eight to 10 indicates high risk and people may experience burns in under 10 minutes.
Anything 11 or above is very high risk and people with fair skin can experience dangerous burns in just five minutes. People are advised to stay indoors or avoid the sun completely.
And this summer – millions of Americans will experience these dangerously high levels.
Experts warn temperatures in the Midwest and Northeast could exceed 105 degrees Fahrenheit due to a ‘heat dome’ (stock image)
The above map shows the average UV index for June from 2006 to 2023, according to the latest EPA data
There is no end limit on the scale, as it is measured based on what can cause burns to people and can continue to increase as temperatures rise and the sun’s rays become stronger.
According to the EPA, every American is expected to be exposed to high temperatures this summer. Even Alaska has issued its first-ever heat warning this week, though its UV levels are still low.
However, some are more at risk of life-threatening complications.
Based on average indices recorded between 2006 and 2023, people in the southwest are expected to experience UV levels ranging from 10 to 13 and beyond.
In June, western and eastern Texas, along with much of New Mexico, Colorado and Hawaii, as well as eastern Arizona will see indices of 12 to 13.
Southern California, Nevada and Utah and western Arizona, as well as parts of Wyoming, Kanas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia will see a UV index of 11 or 12.
All of Florida and nearly everyone in Louisiana will also experience UV levels of 11 to 12.
As the summer progresses, UV indices of 12 to 13 will reach southern Florida and parts of California.
And higher levels – seven to nine – will begin creeping north, reaching Washington, Oregon, Montana, the Dakotas, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Maine.
In August, levels will begin to dip a bit – decreasing to slightly lower levels than June.
The above map shows the average UV index for July
The above map shows the average UV index for August
High UV exposure can lead to sunburns, which may blister and scar. Blistering that breaks the skin may increase the risk of infection, as bacteria and other contaminants can enter the area.
UV exposure is also the leading cause of skin cancer, which strikes 5.4million Americans every year.
And the risk of getting its deadliest form, melanoma, doubles after getting just five – or more – sunburns in your lifetime.
Researchers believe UV indices are increasing because the ozone layer, which absorbs most of the suns UV rays, is depleting due to increased greenhouse gas commissions.
This leaves it less able to protect against harmful UV rays.
This article was originally published by a www.dailymail.co.uk . Read the Original article here. .