Extreme UV warning in the Canaries

The Canarian Health Service has warned that levels of ultra-violet radiation will remain extremely high until at least the 4^th of July, and recommends that people avoid exposure to the sun during the middle of the day, even when there are clouds in the sky.

UV levels have been at 11 on the UV index for some days now. This is classed as “Extreme risk” and the WHO advises that people “avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If outdoors, seek shade and wear sun-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen every 1.5 hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.

Particularly relevant to whitewashed Lanzarote is the information that “Bright surfaces, such as sand, water, and snow, will increase UV exposure.”