Sunshine alert: More ultraviolet radiation information, including real-time and forecast UV indices, is available on the Observatory's website.

The Hong Kong Observatory has launched a new webpage with more ultraviolet radiation information, to raise public awareness of the need for sun protection.

Existing real-time and forecast UV indices have been revamped. The site now includes past UV indices statistics, the health effects of different types of radiation such as UVA and UVB, the effectiveness of sunscreen lotion and clothing, common misconceptions about sun protection, and UV applications in daily life.

Observatory Assistant Director Leung Wing-mo said the new information will help teachers prepare lessons, and provide parents with practical tips to protect their children from UV radiation.

Assistant Director of Health Dr Regina Ching welcomed the update and noted that it helps people get important information and enables them to better understand the health effects of sun exposure and the need to protect against it. 

Limited moderate exposure to the sun is good for health, but overexposure can cause skin and eye injuries, and more seriously, cataracts and skin cancers.

The observatory has been measuring UV radiation and disseminating UV levels since 1999. It has provided UV index forecasts since 2006. Click here to visit the new UV webpage.