How Quickly Can You Burn in the 11+ UV Index We Are Experiencing in Indiana?
Who’s the Fairest of Them All? My Skin Says Me
If anyone, anywhere, asked their mirror, “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” it wouldn’t say the Evil Queen or even Snow White. It would point directly at me. Not because I claim to be beautiful, but because of my complexion.
I was born a freckled strawberry blonde, so being "fair" has always just been part of life. Then, several years ago, I started taking a medication that makes me super sensitive to sunlight, and I’ve basically had to go full vampire since.
Let’s just say I’ve made peace with the rash guard.
Teaching My Daughter to Respect the Sun
My preteen daughter wants to be outside getting a tan so badly. She checks the UV index like it’s the weather lottery. But after my dad had skin cancer when I was in high school, and after I had a suspicious spot removed myself, I’ve become a proud sunscreen freak.
She wears at least SPF 50, every single time. She’s usually the only kid on the soccer field wearing it, and she makes sure I know just how much she hates it. But I don’t really care. I love her too much not to make her wear it.
Why I Avoid the Heat
As for me, when it’s over 90 degrees like it has been this week, I’m not spending much time outdoors. I stopped by the barn to clean horse stalls and give them cold baths yesterday, but other than that, I’m staying inside. I’d burn like a rotisserie chicken, and I know it.
But today, I saw a Facebook post that reminded me how important sunscreen is, especially in this kind of weather. If you're outside, even for a few minutes, you need to protect your skin.
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Understanding the UV Index
According to The Weather Network, the UV index in our area is sitting between 9 and 11 all week. That’s classified as very high to extreme.
The EPA explains that the UV Index is a daily forecast of the expected intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. While some sun exposure is good for you, too much can cause serious damage. Overexposure to UV rays can lead to sunburns, skin cancer, and even cataracts.
Evansville, IN UV Index
Today – Monday, June 23
Current UV Index: 8 (Very High)
Daily Max at 12 PM: 10 (Very High)
Daily Max UV Forecast:
Tuesday, June 24: 10 (Very High)
Wednesday, June 25: 11 (Extreme)
Thursday, June 26: 10 (Very High)
Friday, June 27: 9 (Very High)
Owensboro, KY UV Index
Today – Monday, June 23
Current UV Index: 8 (Very High)
Daily Max at 12 PM: 10 (Very High)
Daily Max UV Forecast:
Tuesday, June 24: 10 (Very High)
Wednesday, June 25: 10 (Very High)
Thursday, June 26: 10 (Very High)
Friday, June 27: 9 (Very High)
What SPF Should You Use?
The EPA recommends wearing at least SPF 30 when the UV index is between 3 and 7. When the UV index climbs above that, it’s time to step up your game with stronger SPF and UV-protective clothing.
How Long Before a Person Will Burn in 11+ UV Index?
Meteorologist Matt Standridge from WTHR-Indianapolis posted that with a UV index of 9 or higher, you can get sunburned in as little as 10 minutes. Now, this exact amount of time will vary from person to person based on how much sun exposure you've had and how much melanin you produce, but even if you’re watering your plants, mowing the lawn, or walking the dog, sunscreen is a must.
How Often Should You Apply Sunscreen
According to Johns Hopkins University, sunscreen should be applied every two hours, especially if you are swimming or sweating. It's also important to choose a safe and effective sunscreen. CNN reported that mineral sunscreens were the safest, but only a few made EWG's list.
Final Thoughts on Sun Safety
Sunburns are not just painful, they are dangerous. They increase your risk of skin cancer and accelerate skin aging. So do yourself a favor: wear sunscreen, reapply it often, and don’t underestimate the power of a hat and long sleeves.
Because nobody has time for skin cancer.
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