Why sunblock is important: Sun is stronger now than you may think

The sun in early May can be pretty potent before reaching its peak strength in June.

The sun in May is finally making an appearance for many across the U.S. But don't be fooled by the season still being spring, the sun is as strong in early May as it is in mid-August.

The sun's strength peaks around the summer solstice, but in the weeks surrounding, the sun can be capable of doing some damage without sunscreen.

This year, the summer solstice is set to occur on June 20th; the longest day of the year and the first day of astronomical summer.

During the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, the Earth is tilted at its maximum towards the Sun, leading to increased sunlight. The sun also reaches its highest point of the year.

Throughout May, the CONUS sees anywhere from 9 to 13 hours of sunlight per day, depending on your latitude.