IF you're an early riser then you might enjoy watching the Sun rise each morning.
However, can you still see the Sun rise on a gray, cloudy day? Here's everything you need to know.
Where does the Sun rise from?
We're all told that the Sun rises from the east and sets in the west – but this is only true twice a year.
The occurrence only happens on the equinox.
This means that on the spring equinox – March 19, 20 or 21 – and on the autumn equinox, which usually occurs on September 22 or 23, the Sun rises due east and due west.
For the rest of the days, it rises north or south of “due east” and sets north or south of “due west”.
However, looking in the general direction of east should be enough to get a glimpse of a Sun rise.
This exact point that the Sun rises changes every day and that is why we get a different amount of daylight during summer and winter.
During the summer solstice we celebrate the longest day of the year along with the beginning of summer.
Here the sun rises as far as it can in the northeast and it affects the northern hemisphere with warm temperatures and nice weather, which is why most places in Europe have a great summer.
On the other hand, on December 21, when winter starts, we have the winter solstice – the shortest day of the year.
Whether we can see the Sun or not – due to the weather – it is always in the same position and does not move.
Where does the Sun set?
As previously mentioned the Sun sets due west on two days of the year.
The actual position changes daily – although it is “generally” in the west.
However, the Sun doesn't actually move from east to west.
The Sun always remains in the same position.
The sun rises from the east and sets in the west[/caption]
We see it move because of the rotation of Earth which will see the Sun go from east to west.
The process takes 24 hours and while it rotates, the Sun light reaches different parts of Earth throughout different timings.
Why does the Sun rise in the east?
The Sun rises from the east because the Earth is rotating clockwise so it is going from east to west.
The first ones to receive sun rays are in the east – that is why Australia is ahead of the UK.
We have changes in seasons and different amount of sunlight every day, because the Earth is not only orbiting but it is also rotating on its own axis.
This is why different parts of Earth experience different seasons at a different time.
How to keep your kids safe in warm weather
Hot weather is fabulous, a wonderful trip to the beach or enjoying time in the garden! However, when temperatures skyrocket it can become dangerous. Save The Children have compiled 10 heat safety tips for keeping children safe in a heatwave.
1. Light clothing, heavy sun cream
Choose lightweight, light-colored, and breathable fabrics (such as cotton), and use lots of sunscreen to protect you and your child from the heat and potential sunburn.
2. Drink lots of fluids
Remember to drink plenty of liquids, regardless of your activity level. Check your baby's nappy for concentrated (dark in color) urine, which can indicate dehydration.
3. Get lots of rest
Try and limit activities. Make sure that children get lots of rest when they are active. NHS advises to “try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm”.
4. Keep children entertained
Children may become anxious or restless from being kept indoors. Plan for indoor activities and games.
5. Reassure children
Children may be stressed by the heat. Remember that children take their cues from their parents and caregivers, so try to keep calm and answer their questions openly and honestly. Also stick to regular bath and sleep times for your child.
6. House safety/cooling tips
During the day, keep rooms cool by closing blinds/curtains, especially in rooms facing the sun. Using a fan to circulate air in the room is beneficial. Review your child's school sun policy.
7. Never leave children unsupervised in parked cars
Even in less threatening temperatures, vehicles can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures. A child left inside a car is at risk of severe heat-related illness or death, even if the windows are cracked open.
8. Stay informed
Listen to local news and weather channels for health, safety and weather-related updates.
9. Know how to identify heat-related illnesses
Look for signs of heat-related illnesses/conditions such as heat stroke, exhaustion, cramps, and severe sunburn. If children show these symptoms, seek medical assistance. Refer to the NHS website for a complete list, and how to remedy them.
10. Read the NHS guidance for babies
The NHS advises giving your baby a cool bath before bedtime and keeping nightwear to a minimum. Your baby will sleep most comfortably at room temperature between 16C and 20C, a nursery thermometer will help you monitor the temperature of the baby's room.
