Bengaluru is facing an invisible environmental threat after the city’s UV index surged to an extreme level of 13 on Monday afternoon (March 9), raising serious health concerns for residents.
According to
experts, such a high ultraviolet (UV) index significantly increases the risk of skin damage, eye injuries and long-term health issues caused by excessive exposure to solar radiation.
Peak Radiation Hours Between 11 AM and 4 PM
Health experts say the most dangerous period for UV exposure is typically between 11 AM and 4 PM, when solar radiation reaches its highest intensity. During these hours, prolonged outdoor exposure should be avoided whenever possible.
What makes the situation particularly concerning is Bengaluru’s relatively comfortable daytime temperature, which may encourage people to step outside without realizing the risks.
On Monday afternoon, the city recorded a temperature of around 29°C, which does not feel excessively hot. However, the UV index simultaneously reached a worrying level of 13, a figure classified as “extreme” on the global UV scale.
Meteorological forecasts also suggest that the UV index could remain around 12 for most of the coming week, indicating that the spike may not be a temporary occurrence.
What Does a UV Index of 13 Mean?
The Ultraviolet Index (UVI) measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth’s surface at a particular place and time.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), ultraviolet radiation can penetrate the skin and affect underlying tissues, potentially causing serious health problems.
The UV index scale is categorized as follows:
0–2: Low risk
3–5: Moderate risk
6–7: High risk
8–10: Very high risk
11 and above: Extreme risk
With Bengaluru recording a UVI of 13, the city has entered the highest risk category, where unprotected exposure can cause damage within a short period.
Health Risks of Excessive UV Exposure
While sunlight is an important source of Vitamin D, excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation can have several harmful effects on the body.
Some major health risks include:
Skin burns: Short-term exposure to intense UV radiation can cause painful skin burns and tissue damage.
Eye problems: Prolonged exposure may lead to eye injuries and increase the risk of vision disorders.
Skin cancer: Overexposure to UV radiation is one of the major causes of melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer.
How to Protect Yourself from UV Radiation
Experts recommend taking a few simple precautions to minimize exposure to harmful UV rays:
Avoid outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours, especially between 11 AM and 4 PM.
Wear protective clothing that covers most parts of the body.
Apply sunscreen on exposed areas such as the face, neck and hands.
Use sunglasses to protect the eyes from direct sunlight.
As Bengaluru continues to experience unusually high UV levels, health experts advise residents to remain cautious and take protective measures when stepping outdoors.
