The Global Solar UV Index, or UV Index, expresses the measured or predicted amount/intensity of the ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun at a particular place on a particular day. In many countries, it is reported in daily weather forecasts, particularly in summer, to inform the general public about the intensity of the sun and the levels of sun protection measures needed. Many weather forecasts on the Internet include information about the UV Index.

In Figure 2, the levels of the UV Index are explained and corresponding suggestions for the necessary protection measures are given.

Figure 2: UV Index

Source: Reproduced, with the permission of the publisher, from Global Solar UV Index: A Practical Guide. A joint recommendation of the World Health Organization, World Meteorological Organization, United Nations Environment Programme, and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. Geneva, World Health Organization, 2002 (Cover and Fig. 2, Page 8; accessed 10 March 2014).