Use an umbrella — rain or shine

During Alabama summers, umbrellas usually come out when rain is in the forecast. Chandana Mitra, a professor in Auburn University’s Department of Geosciences, thinks they deserve a place in the sunshine, too.

Mitra, a climatologist specializing in urban heat impacts and a contributing author to the urban chapter of the U.S. National Climate Assessment, has observed that the use of umbrellas or parasols for sun protection is uncommon in Auburn and across much of the United States, even during periods of extreme heat.

Auburn University climatologist Chandana Mitra and doctoral student Brandon Ryan set up temperature sensors to compare heat exposure in direct sunlight and under different types of umbrellas.

Temperature data collected during Mitra’s field experiment showed differences in heat exposure under a standard umbrella, a UV-protective umbrella and direct sunlight.

Auburn experiences approximately 210 to 230 sunny or partly cloudy days each year, according to WeatherSpark. During the summer months, especially June through September, temperatures often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the “Loveliest Village on the Plains,” particularly in July and August.

“Such conditions can make walking even moderate distances during the day uncomfortable and potentially unsafe,” Mitra says.

In the southeastern United States, heat-related discomfort and illness are not uncommon during peak summer conditions. But Mitra says standing under an umbrella can reduce the experienced temperature by approximately 8 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit compared to direct sun exposure.

To quantify these effects, Mitra conducted a field experiment comparing temperatures under a “sun and UV protection” umbrella, a standard umbrella and direct sunlight. The study used iButton temperature sensors and was conducted with assistance from her doctoral student, Brandon Ryan, whose research focuses on differential heating in the Jordan-Hare Stadium stands during football games.

The results confirmed the cooling benefits of shade. The specialized UV-protection umbrella was 1.79 degrees cooler than a standard umbrella and 4.89 degrees cooler than direct sunlight exposure. Additionally, the standard umbrella reduced temperatures by 3.10 degrees compared to open-sky conditions.

“While ultraviolet radiation levels were not measured due to instrumentation limitations, the findings clearly demonstrate the thermal advantages of umbrella use,” Mitra explained.

Her team also used infrared imaging to compare surface temperatures under shaded and unshaded conditions. After 30 minutes of sun exposure, clothing under an umbrella was approximately 8 degrees cooler than clothing exposed directly to sunlight.

“Together, the findings reinforce that using any type of umbrella can significantly reduce heat exposure during outdoor activities,” Mitra said.

Supporting research from the Drexel University College of Medicine evaluated the validity of ultraviolet protection factor claims for sun-protective umbrellas sold in the United States. Although the study did not directly test umbrella performance, the authors recommend using umbrellas along with other sun-protection strategies, such as sunscreen and protective clothing. Additional research highlights personal umbrellas as a cost-effective and adaptable alternative to tree shade in urban environments.

“Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can elevate core body temperature, increase the risk of dehydration and lead to symptoms such as dizziness and heat-related illness, particularly after 15 to 20 minutes of unshaded activity in peak conditions,” Mitra said.

While short distances may be manageable, extended exposure requires precaution.

Mitra added that cultural norms also shape how people think about sun protection. In many parts of Asia, umbrellas are routinely used for both rain and sun protection. In South Korea, where umbrellas have historically been associated with women, interest among male consumers has grown substantially in recent years, reflecting broader shifts in perception. In contrast, sun umbrella use remains relatively uncommon in the United States.

“Given rising temperatures both locally and globally, it is increasingly important for individuals to adopt effective heat-mitigation practices,” Mitra said. “I want all Alabamians to be aware of heat precaution when preparing for summer outdoor activities, beaches and barbeque.”

While caps and hats remain useful, she recommends considering a sun- or UV-protective umbrella during prolonged outdoor activities — rain or shine.