SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/snow-reflects-uv

Sledding on a sunny winter day, about how much of the sun's UV light can snow bounce back at you?

Up to 80 percent, so the rays can hit you twice.

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  1. Almost none, cold blocks UV
  2. About 10 percent
  3. Up to 80 percent ✔

Why: Snow is a mirror for UV light. EPA says snow can reflect as much as 80 percent of UV, nearly doubling exposure. Sunscreen and sunglasses matter in winter too.

Huh, didn't know that: EPA says UV increases about 2 percent for every 1,000 feet of elevation because mountain air is thinner.

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What did one snowman say to the other snow man? Do you smell carrot?
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References

Answer: Up to 80 percent. Snow is a mirror for UV light. EPA says snow can reflect as much as 80 percent of UV, nearly doubling exposure. Sunscreen and sunglasses matter in winter too.

  1. A Guide to the UV Index (US EPA) www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/documents/uviguide.pdf
    Snow may reflect as much as 80% of UV, sand 15%, and water 10%.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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