Today is seeing people in the central and northern parts of Viet Nam, including Da Nang, brace for ultraviolet (UV) rays at high risk levels with the readings of 7.5 - 9.8, Viet Nam's National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting said.

At 12.00pm on Tuesday, Da Nang braced for the UV radiation index reading of 9.7, Hoi An in Quang Nam Province at 9.6, both Nha Trang City in Khanh Hoa Province and HCM City at 9.8, Can Tho City at 7.5. Such dangerous levels can cause eye damage, overheating and dehydration to those exposed to direct sunlight during the hot weather.

Wednesday into next Friday, the UV index in the cities of Ha Long, Hai Phong and Ha Noi is expected to reach the threshold of high risk at levels 6 -7, while cities stretching from Hue to the southernmost province of Ca Mau could experience a very high level of harm with the readings of 8 – 10.

In light of prolonged hot weather with very high UV rays posing an increased risk of health problems, people in the affected localities are now advised by health experts to take the initiative to protect themselves from UV damage triggered by much sun exposure.

Staying out of the sun is the best way to avoid sun damage. Other precautions should be taken for both skin and eyes include using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding direct sunlight around midday when UV rays are strongest.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns the UV index reading 8 to 10 can burn skin within 25 minutes.

Meanwhile, the UV Index reading of 11 or more puts you at a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, and people may burn if they are exposed to direct sunlight during the hot weather in 10 minutes. The UV Index of 12 means extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure.

Medical experts warn that high UV levels can accelerate skin aging and pose more severe threats to human health like skin cancer.

Reporting by TTXVN- Translating by A.T