Danger! UV radiation in Baden-Württemberg: Extreme danger looms!

Danger! UV radiation in Baden-Württemberg: Extreme danger looms!

In the heart of Germany, especially in Baden-Württemberg, the risk from UV radiation is particularly high this season. According to the current UV index from the German Weather Service (DWD), the risk is very high in large parts of the region. Particularly along the Upper Rhine and in large parts south of Stuttgart, the risk was raised to warning level 9 on Wednesday, which meant that all outdoor leisure activities should be approached with particular caution. From a warning level of 11 onwards, an extreme health risk from UV radiation is assumed, which entails serious health risks.

The risks are not insignificant. UV radiation is one of the main causes of skin cancer, which affects over 300,000 people in Germany every year. A simple sunburn can be the first step in a worrying direction. The Federal Environment Agency makes it clear that almost half of the year in lowland regions UV irradiation levels are reached that make sun protection necessary. It is therefore advisable to take very good care of your own skin and adapt to the conditions outdoors.

Outdoor protective measures

How do you best protect yourself? The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends staying in the shade as often as possible and using high-quality sunscreen. Wearing special clothing that covers the skin can also help tremendously. A wide-brimmed hat is not only stylish, but also very useful for protecting the head and face.

The importance of conscious sun exposure should not be underestimated. Over the past 30 years, the incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancer has quadrupled in men and fivefold in women. Children and people who work outdoors a lot should be particularly careful. Sunburns in childhood significantly increase the risk of melanoma skin cancer later in life.

Vigilance required

That's why it's even more important to take the warnings seriously. The DWD UV Danger Index offers a helpful assessment of the risks that can arise when staying in the sun. A regularly updated map that shows color-coded forecasts for the current day and the next two days makes it easier to stay cool during the warm season.

In addition, it must be noted that UV radiation varies not only from the earth's surface, but also from existing weather conditions. Factors such as cloud cover and altitude play a major role in the intensity of UV radiation, which varies in different regions of Germany.

Anthropogenic depletion of the ozone layer could increase UV irradiance, although this has less influence in Germany. What is positive is that the ozone layer is expected to recover by around 2035 in the northern hemisphere. Nevertheless, isolated small ozone events have occurred that can result in sudden increases in UV determinations, as an example from Munich shows. The UV index there rose from 3 to 6 in 2020.

Overall, the following applies: Always find out about the current UV index and take the necessary precautionary measures so that you can enjoy your time outdoors without any worries. Healthy sunbathing is possible – with care and the necessary protection.