Here’s Why Everyone in Maine is Saying Not to Look at the Sun Today

If you've been scrolling social media today, you've probably seen people saying the same thing: don't look directly at the sun. 

It sounds obvious, but there's actually a super good reason the warning is making the rounds in Maine. 

According to the US National Weather Service, smoke from Canadian wildfires has drifted high into the atmosphere, giving the sky a hazy appearance and making the sun look more orange or dim than usual.

Here's Why You Can't Look at The Sun Today in Maine

That softer appearance can trick people into thinking it's safe to stare at but experts say it absolutely is not. 

Even when the sun looks muted, harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation is still reaching the ground.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency uses the UV Index to measure the strength of UV radiation on a scale from 1 to 11+, and much of Maine is experiencing "Very High" UV conditions today.

At those levels, unprotected skin and eyes can be damaged in a relatively short amount of time.  

Read More: The Saco River Curse Legend And What Locals Still Believe Today

Health experts recommend wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, applying SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, get under the shade during the strongest midday sun, and never looking directly at the sun, even when smoke or clouds make it appear less intense.

Permanent eye damage can occur without immediate pain or warning.