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How water and sand can increase your sunburn chances

With more sunshine expected after tonight's showers and storms passing through, many people will be taking to local waterways to enjoy some time in the water or on beaches. Although this will be a perfect time to be outdoors, you'll want to be more cautious as the chance of sunburn and skin damage increases substantially.

Many surfaces can increase the intensity of UV rays due to their reflectivity properties. Snow has reflectivity rates reaching 50-88% alone. Sea surf can have 25-30% reflectivity, with sand 15-18% reflectivity.

This paired with less clothing due to swimming, means increased chances for sun damage.

The UV index Wednesday afternoon will reach a level 9 thanks to mostly sunny sky conditions.

More sunshine is expected the rest of the week as a high pressure system sets up overhead.

Several dermatologist across Columbia and Missouri have been reiterating the tips above to maintain proper health.

Article Topic Follows: Weather

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Chance Gotsch

Chance Gotsch grew up just south of St. Louis and moved to Columbia to attend the University of Missouri to pursue a degree in Atmospheric Sciences.

His interest in weather begin as a child when he used to be afraid of storms.

Chance joined the ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team in February 2021. He is currently the weekday noon meteorologist.

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