In Anchorage, winter days are short, but they can be blindingly bright. Fresh snow on the Chugach, ice on Cook Inlet and a low sun that never climbs very high mean a lot of light bouncing straight into your eyes. That reflected light carries ultraviolet (UV) rays, and it can burn the surface of the eye.
What snow blindness is
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) describes photokeratitis as a painful condition caused by UV exposure, a bit like a sunburn on the eye. Snow blindness is a common form, caused by UV reflected off ice and snow. The AAO notes that UV eye damage is especially common near the poles and in high mountains, where thinner air gives less protection. The term can also describe freezing or severe drying of the corneal surface in extremely cold, dry air. Skiing, snowmobiling and mountain climbing are common triggers.
Symptoms show up later
Like a skin sunburn, the damage is usually not noticed until hours afterward. The AAO lists pain, redness, blurriness, tearing, a gritty feeling, swelling, light sensitivity, headache and seeing halos, and rarely temporary vision loss.
What to do if it happens
- Remove contact lenses right away.
- Get out of the sun and rest in a dark room.
- Use a cool washcloth over closed eyes and artificial tears for comfort.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes. Symptoms usually fade over a day or two.
- See an eye doctor if pain is severe, vision does not improve, or symptoms last longer.
Prevention for Alaska winters
- Wear sunglasses or snow goggles that block 99% or more of UV, even on overcast days.
- Choose wraparound styles or goggles that also block cold wind.
- Protect children on sleds and skates, too.
- Keep a spare pair in the car, the snowmachine and your day pack.
Cold, dry winter air also irritates the eyelids and tear film; this eyelid and dry eye blog explains why.
Wherever you live, from Anchorage to Los Angeles, the rule is the same: if the sun is bright enough to make you squint, it is bright enough to need sunglasses.
Source: What is Photokeratitis — Including Snow Blindness? (American Academy of Ophthalmology, 6/30/2026). This article is an educational summary written by Khanna Vision Institute and is not a substitute for medical advice.