MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency
Ozone hole over Falklands.
The Ozone hole has reached land and population areas in Argentina, Chile and the Falkland Islands.
The area and population affected including the Argentine city of Ushuaia which has a population of 30,000 and Punta Arenas, Chile with a population of 120,000 are all at risk during this time period, so reports The Ozone Hole Organization, a non profit group dedicated to preventing the ozone layer.
The Ozone Hole organization recommends public should avoid going outside during the peak hours of 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to impede exposure to the UV rays. "If people do go outside during these hours they should wear protective sunscreen and if possible a hat or head covering and sunglasses with a uv rating".
The ozone hole has reached land and population areas in Argentina, Chile and the Falkland Islands since the early 1990's. Ozone levels drop down as much as 70% in some areas. The protective level of ozone has dropped below 150 Dobson units in some areas.
It has reached further north at times extending to the towns of Rio Gallegos, Puerto Santa Cruz, and Rio Grande affecting an additional 200,000 people.
Full story and graphics in http://www.theozonehole.com/ozonehole2003.htm.
Top Comments
Disclaimer & comment rulesCommenting for this story is now closed.
If you have a Facebook account, become a fan and comment on our Facebook Page!