YANGON: In the second week of March, the ultraviolet (UV) index was at the orange level, indicating a high UV index, as announced by the Ministry of Information.
The ministry reported that during the second week of March, the UV index ranged between 6 and 7, reaching the orange level, which signifies a high UV index.
The UV index is categorized by color: green represents a low index, ranging from 0 to 2.9; yellow indicates a moderate index, ranging from 3 to 5.9; orange signifies a high index, ranging from 6 to 7.9; and red represents a very high index, ranging from 8 to 10.9.
Compared to previous years, the temperature has not yet reached its peak. In early March 2020, the highest temperature recorded was above 43 degrees Celsius, marking the highest temperature of that period, according to the Ministry of Information.
However, as daytime temperatures rise, the increased levels of ultraviolet radiation in sunlight have made the effects of high heat more noticeable. To protect against heat-related risks, the Ministry of Information advises staying in shaded and cool areas, avoiding direct exposure of the skin to sunlight, wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured cotton clothing that covers the arms, neck, and shoulders, carrying an umbrella or wearing a hat when going out during the day, and drinking plenty of water.
During periods of high UV index, exposure to sunlight can cause skin sunburn, darkening of the skin, premature aging of the skin, weakened immunity, cataracts, and skin cancer, among other adverse health effects. - Eleven Media/ANN
