This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Caution: High UV Index, Temps Today

The National Weather Service is predicting a high of 90 degrees and a UV index of 9 today, meaning that a person could get sunburned in under 8 minutes if not protected.

The ultraviolet index level for today in Sierra Madre and the Los Angeles area is 9, according to the National Weather Service.

Exposure to a UV index this high can cause a fair-skinned person to burn in seven to eight minutes if they're not protected.

It will also be very hot. The NWS is predicting a high of 90 degrees today, and 92 degrees tomorrow.

Find out what's happening in Sierra Madrewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

It may be a good idea to put on some sunscreen, a hat, long sleeves or sunglasses before you head out for lunch today, take a stroll in or enjoy a snack at one of Kersting Court's tables.

The NWS measures the UV index on a scale of 1-11+, and a reading of 9 is incredibly high.

Find out what's happening in Sierra Madrewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The UV index is expected reach 9 at noon today, when the sun's rays are at their strongest.

Here's a look at the UV index scale and what each reading means:

  • A reading of 0-2 indicates a minimal exposure level, and very fair-skinned people could become sunburned in 30 minutes if not properly protected.
  • A reading of 3-4 is considered a low exposure level, reducing the danger range for those with fair complexions to 15-20 minutes if not protected.
  • A moderate exposure level of 5-6 indicates that a person with a fair complexion could be safe from sun burn for 10-12 minutes, unless protected.
  • A high exposure level reading of 7-9 means that a person could be sunburned in seven to eight minutes.
  • A very high exposure level reading of 10, or greater, means a fair-skinned person could suffer a sunburn in about four minutes if not protected.

Ultraviolet radiation is blamed for a host of health problems, including skin cancer and cataracts.

More info on the UV Index can be found here.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Sierra Madre