Huge reduction in ozone layer over Arctic

SCOTS have been warned they are currently at greatest risk from the sun after an unprecedented depletion of the ozone layer was reported by scientists.

Environmental campaigners WWF Scotland called for the Scottish Government to issue new advice because of the increased risk of ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

The ozone layer is normally at its thinnest in the spring. However, the United Nations' World Meteorological Organisation reported it had suffered a loss of some 40 per cent over the Arctic this winter, compared with the previous record reduction of about 30 per cent in several winters over the past 15 years.

WWF Scotland director Dr Richard Dixon said: "This will mean there will be more UV-B rays getting through, increasing skin cancer and cataracts.

"It is much riskier to go out in the midday sun in spring than summer because the ozone layer is thinner. There is a need to highlight this health issue."

Scientists are also monitoring a massive pool of fresh water in the Arctic Ocean that could spill into the Atlantic and potentially alter the ocean currents that bring Western Europe its moderate climate.