Is an extremely painful and debilitating injury to the eyes.

It is caused by both direct and indirect exposure to intense UV or Ultra Violet radiation generated by the sun and also reflected by the snow.

The intensity of UV radiation increases with altitude.

Snow will reflect around 90% of the sun's rays.

It can occur on overcast days too. Internal reflections within the cloud base add to and
multiply the available UV radiation sufficiently to cause the condition.

The symptoms may not appear for 8 -12 hours after exposure by which time the damage will have been done.

Eyes will feel irritated, with redness and swelling to the eyelids. They may be painful when exposed to the light and may water excessively.

Eyes may be painful to move or blink.

Do not rub the eye as this will aggravate the injury.

Move to a dark area and treat with a cold compress applied to closed eyes.

It usually clears up in a few days although severe cases may take a week or so.

If in doubt seek medical attention.

You should avoid all exposure to both direct and indirect UV radiation on the snow by using goggles or sunglasses that have lenses that are 100% UVA and UVB protective.