Weather and Your Health Quiz

UVA damages cells in the deeper, basal layer of the skin. UVB rays cause sunburn and damage to the outer layers of skin. They are thought to cause the most skin cancers. Protect your skin from UV damage by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen (protects against both UVA and UVB) with an SPF of 30 or higher and is water resistant. Use SPF 30 or higher for a day outdoors. Wear protective clothing and stay out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Keep in mind that even on overcast days, up to 80% of UV radiation still makes it through the cloud cover. UV radiation also gets stronger when it’s reflected off water, sand, or snow, so take extra precaution on the beach and on ski slopes.

Children and adults should also wear UV-blocking sunglasses to prevent eye damage from UV light.