The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has warned the UV Index is predicted to reach an extreme level in Ballarat today.
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Despite being a cloudy day, the BOM recommends sun protection between 9am and 5.40pm as the UV Index is predicted to reach 13.
Extreme UV levels are considered above 11 and very high levels above eight on the UV Index.
Ballarat residents can avoid UV harm by following advice to slip, slop, slap, seek and slide: slip on sun protective clothing, slop on sunscreen, slap on a broad rimmed hat, seek shade and slide on sunglasses.
UV radiation is the major cause of skin cancer, and according to the BOM, Australia has the highest instance of skin cancer in the world.
More than 1700 Australians die from skin cancer each year, and two out of three Australians will get a skin cancer before the age of 70.
Sunburn, whether severe or mild, can cause permanent skin damage.
To the surprise of many, UV radiation can’t been seen or felt. Heat or high temperatures are not an indication of UV radiation, so cloudy days like today can have deceivingly high UV levels.
Sensible sun protection is warranted on days where UV reaches a level above three on the UV Index.
Visit http://www.bom.gov.au/uv/about_uv_index.shtml for more information.
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Rochelle Kirkham
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
