HONG KONG, 26 JUNE 2009—The Hong Kong Observatory is now providing members of the public more ultraviolet (UV) radiation information, including real-time and forecast UV indices, than ever before on its website.
The real-time and forecast UV indices have been revamped. The site now offers detailed views into past UV indices statistics, the effectiveness of sunscreen lotion and clothing, common misconceptions about sun protection, UV applications in daily life, and the health effects of different types of radiation, such as the long wage ultraviolet A (UVA) and the short wave ultraviolet B(UVB).
The Observatory has been measuring UV radiation and reporting on UV levels since 1999, and providing UV index forecasts since 2006. The recent provision of more UV radiation information was prompted by what the Hong Kong government saw as a need to increase public awareness of the need for sun protection, said an Observatory spokesperson.
Leung Wing-mo, assistant director of the Hong Kong Observatory, said the additional streams of information provided now should help teachers prepare lessons, and parents to protect their children from UV radiation better.
