Heat wave: is the sun dangerous?

A new heat wave is expected in France. The mercury will rise further and should reach 40°C in the Southwest from Wednesday August 10. Figures sometimes below reality. “These temperatures are measured under shelter, in the shade therefore, but in the sun, they can climb much higher. 50, 60 or even 80 ° C recorded on the ground, on black bitumen for example”explains Jules Longchampt on the 13 Hours set.

But what you really need to be wary of is the UV index. “That is to say the intensity of the sun and ultraviolet radiation. The scale goes from 0 to 11 and at the moment, we are getting closer to the maximum values ​​with a UV index of 8 or 9 as in Perpignan ( Pyrénées-Orientales) or Aurillac (Cantal)”continues the journalist. “Dermatologists therefore recommend, in times of heat wave, to avoid going out during the hottest hours of the day (between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m.), to hydrate, to apply sunscreen regularly or finally to wear protective clothing for the youngest”he concludes.