Caution: High UV Index, Temps

The ultraviolet index level for Tuesday in the Los Angeles area around the USC Campus Downtown is expected to reach a high of 9 by noon, according to the National Weather Service.

Exposure to a UV index this high can cause a fair-skinned person to burn in seven to eight minutes if they're not protected. The NWS measures the UV index on a scale of 1-11+, and a reading of 9 is incredibly high.

It will also be very hot. The NWS is predicting a high of 87 degrees today, Tuesday, and 88 degrees Wednesday.

It may be a good idea to put on some sunscreen, a hat, long sleeves or sunglasses before you head out for lunch, take a stroll in the or enjoy a cup of coffee and a cupcake at one of sidewalk tables.

The UV index hits its highest point when the sun's rays are at their strongest.

Here's a look at the UV index scale and what each reading means:

• A reading of 0-2 indicates a minimal exposure level, and very fair-skinned people could become sunburned in 30 minutes if not properly protected.
• A reading of 3-4 is considered a low exposure level, reducing the danger range for those with fair complexions to 15-20 minutes if not protected.
• A moderate exposure level of 5-6 indicates that a person with a fair complexion could be safe from sun burn for 10-12 minutes, unless protected.
• A high exposure level reading of 7-9 means that a person could be sunburned in seven to eight minutes.
• A very high exposure level reading of 10, or greater, means a fair-skinned person could suffer a sunburn in about four minutes if not protected.

Ultraviolet radiation is blamed for a host of health problems, including skin cancer and cataracts.

More info on the UV Index can be found here.