In a year of uncertainty we have a welcome constant coming up on the
earth’s calendar. Spring has arrived in
the Southern Hemisphere. Our increasing daylight hours are welcome following
Matariki. In northern Aotearoa the kowhai flowers are bursting, koanga, time
for planting.
It’s almost spring equinox – officially 1.30am NZ time on September 23,
2020.
The equinox occurs twice a year when the earth’s axis is tilted neither
toward nor away from the sun. After this date we will be thrown into strengthening sunlight as the earth slowly tilts and
brings the south pole closer to the sun.
The UV index will be creeping up. NIWA’s Leigh UV station is recording 4-5
during the middle of the day, Wellington is also just starting to reach UVI 3-4
and southern NZ will not be far behind.
Three plus is where the UV level has burning potential and slip, slop, slap
is recommended during the stronger sunshine hours of the day. It can still be cold and windy but don’t
underestimate the spring sun on skin that has been hidden over winter.
Remind yourself of your level of risk – fair skin, your activities, past
sunburns, family history, medicines you take, medical conditions - talk to your
dermatologist about these factors. Our spring blogs will cover some of
these. Meanwhile get out your hat, keep
the long sleeves, renew your sunscreen and enjoy the spring.