Power systems: High-latitude power systems may experience voltage alarms,
long-duration storms may cause transformer damage.
Spacecraft operations: Corrective actions to orientation may be required by ground control;
possible changes in drag affect orbit predictions.
Other systems: HF radio propagation can fade at higher latitudes,
and aurora has been seen as low as New York and Idaho (typically 55° geomagnetic latitude.).
A UV index reading of 8 to 10 means very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure.
Take extra precautions because unprotected skin and eyes will be damaged and can burn quickly.
Minimize sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If outdoors, seek shade and wear sun protective clothing,
a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen
every 2 hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
Bright surfaces, such as sand, water, and snow, will increase UV exposure.
On the ground:
Leaves and small twigs in constant motion; wind extends light flag.
On the sea:
Large wavelets. Crests begin to break. Foam of glassy appearance. Perhaps scattered white horses.
On the ground:
Wind felt on face; leaves rustle; ordinary vanes moved by wind.
On the sea:
Small wavelets, still short, but more pronounced. Crests have a glassy appearance and do not break.
A UV index reading of 3 to 5 means moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure.
Stay in shade near midday when the sun is strongest. If outdoors, wear sun protective clothing,
a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen
every 2 hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Bright surfaces, such as sand,
water, and snow, will increase UV exposure.
On the ground:
Small trees in leaf begin to sway; crested wavelets form on inland waters.
On the sea:
Moderate waves, taking a more pronounced long form; many white horses are formed.
A UV index reading of 0 to 2 means low danger from the sun's UV rays for the
average person.
Wear sunglasses on bright days. If you burn easily, cover up and use broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Bright surfaces, such as sand, water, and snow, will increase UV exposure.
On the ground:
Raises dust and loose paper; small branches are moved.
On the sea:
Small waves, becoming larger; fairly frequent white horses.
Power systems: Weak power grid fluctuations can occur.
Spacecraft operations: Minor impact on satellite operations possible.
Other systems: Migratory animals are affected at this and higher levels;
aurora is commonly visible at high latitudes (northern Michigan and Maine).
On the ground:
Direction of wind shown by smoke drift, but not by wind vanes.
On the sea:
Ripples with the appearance of scales are formed, but without foam crests.