Lanzarote is under extreme risk from ultraviolet (UV) radiation until, at least, until August 25, according to data from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) released by the Ministry of Health of the Government of the Canary Islands. Only the capital, Arrecife, presents a "very high" level, while the rest of the island reaches the threshold of greatest danger.
The Plan of Preventive Actions of the Effects of UV Radiation, coordinated by the General Directorate of Public Health of the Canary Islands Health Service (SCS), establishes a series of self-protection measures that are considered essential in this scenario: avoid direct exposure to the sun, especially in the central hours of the day; use broad-spectrum sunscreen with factor 50+; seek shade whenever possible; wear light clothing that covers arms and legs; and protect yourself with hats and approved glasses.
Public Health technicians recall that the Canary Islands is the region of Spain with the highest ultraviolet radiation throughout the year. In addition, they warn that sun damage is cumulative and that burns in childhood or youth significantly increase the risk of skin cancer in later stages of life.
The impact of overexposure to UV radiation includes from sunburn, skin reactions and DNA damage to more serious diseases such as different types of skin cancer or eye problems. The most vulnerable population includes those who work outdoors, people with fair skin, people over 50 years of age, or those who take certain medications that increase sensitivity to the sun.
Currently, Gran Canaria and El Hierro are also at extreme risk throughout their surface, as are several municipalities in Tenerife, Fuerteventura, La Palma and La Gomera.
Public Health insists that protection against the sun must be maintained throughout the year, even on cloudy days, and reiterates that exposure to ultraviolet radiation increases with altitude.