As record-breaking heatwaves continue to sweep across the country, the parasol is gaining attention as a "survival item" in the scorching weather. This is because it can lower the perceived temperature by up to 10 degrees Celsius when used outdoors.
On July 8, the Korea Meteorological Administration sent an official letter to all city and provincial offices of education nationwide, containing a "Parasol Use on the Way Home from School Campaign Card News," urging schools to encourage students to use parasols during heatwaves. On the same day, Daegu City also launched a campaign with the slogan "Parasol ON, Heatwave OFF," encouraging citizens to use parasols on their way to work.
In fact, parasols are known to be highly effective in preventing heat-related damage. According to data released in 2018 by the Seoul Institute, an organization under the Seoul Metropolitan Government, using a parasol while outdoors can lower the perceived temperature by up to 10 degrees Celsius.
Experiments by Japan's Ministry of the Environment also showed that walking for 15 minutes with a parasol reduced sweat production by about 17% compared to wearing only a hat. This is because, during intense heat, a parasol blocks sunlight and prevents the skin temperature from rising.
Additionally, parasols block ultraviolet rays, which not only helps prevent heat-related illnesses but also skin diseases and hair loss. While the effect of sunscreen lasts only about two hours, research has shown that parasols can block up to 99% of ultraviolet rays.
Experts advise that to maximize the benefits, it is best to choose a parasol with a white exterior that reflects sunlight well and a black interior that blocks radiant heat from the ground. To prepare for unpredictable weather caused by climate change, it is also recommended to use a "wooyangsan"?a parasol with both waterproof and UV-blocking coatings?so it can be used as a parasol on sunny days and as an umbrella when it rains.
Meanwhile, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the previous day, the daytime high in Seoul nearly reached 38 degrees Celsius, marking the highest temperature ever recorded in early July since modern meteorological observations began in 1907. On July 8 alone, 238 cases of heat-related illnesses were reported nationwide, bringing the cumulative total to 1,228. Among them, there have been eight deaths, far exceeding last year's total of three.
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