To ensure a safe summer, it is necessary to be “aware of ultraviolet (UV) ray levels” and to protect “your eyes and skin.” This advice comes from the National Health Service (SNS), which shared a message on social media this Tuesday, the 12th, providing more information about UV rays. What are they?
UV rays “are a type of radiation emitted by the sun essential to the planet.” However, “when they exceed safe limits, they can cause damage to the skin and eyes.”
But how do we know if it has exceeded safe limits? The SNS answers this, explaining that “the UV Index is a measure of the levels of UV radiation that helps us know what protective measures to adopt.”
Understand:
- Level 1-2 – Low. No protection needed;
- Level 3-5 – Moderate. Protection needed;
- Level 6-7 – High. Protection needed;
- Level 8-10 – Very High. Extra protection needed;
- Level 11+ – Extreme. Extra protection needed.
In the same post, the National Health Service provides four key tips for protection. Use sunscreen (SPF>30) even on cloudy days, and UV-protective sunglasses.
Wear a t-shirt, hat, and use a parasol and avoid sun exposure, particularly between 11 AM and 5 PM.
Stay aware of ultraviolet (UV) ray levels and protect your eyes and skin. Enjoy this summer responsibly and healthily. ️ #Saúde #SNS #DGS #Calor
© @DGSaude pic.twitter.com/2m2x3AFV7Y— SNS_Portugal (@SNS_Portugal) August 12, 2025
Additionally, the government has renewed the alert situation in the country until Friday, August 15, due to the risk of forest fires.
The renewal is based on two main reasons: the continuation of high temperatures across the country in the coming days and the reduction of ignitions due to the imposed prohibitions.
The alert situation due to fires has been extended until Friday, the Ministry of Internal Administration announced this Tuesday.
Márcia Guímaro Rodrigues | 18:58 – 12/08/2025
