Last updated: April 14, 2025
The climate of Tokelau is characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity, creating a tropical paradise. December sees minimum temperatures of around 25°C (76°F) in Fakaofo and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F) in Atafu. Rainfall varies significantly throughout the year, with July's precipitation in Atafu dropping to a low of 122 mm (4.8 in), while February brings a dramatic peak of 375 mm (14.8 in) in Fakaofo. Humidity levels also fluctuate, with an average minimum of 74% in December in Fakaofo and an average maximum of 81% in August in Atafu, underscoring the region's lush, tropical environment.
Tokelau is characterized by a tropical rainforest climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Af for all three atolls: Atafu, Fakaofo, and Nukunonu. This means residents can expect warm temperatures and high humidity year-round, alongside plentiful rainfall. Such climatic conditions not only influence the rich biodiversity of the region but also shape the unique lifestyle and culture of the Tokelauan people, who rely heavily on the lush environment for sustenance and livelihood.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Af | Tropical rainforest climate with no dry season and high temperatures year-round. |
Tokelau enjoys a consistently warm tropical climate throughout the year, with minimum temperatures hovering around 25°C (77°F) across all months. The maximum temperatures, however, reveal subtle seasonal shifts: peaking at 30°C (86°F) in January, April, May, November, and December in Atafu and Nukunonu, while cooling slightly to 29°C (85°F) in the mid-year months of March, June, July, August, September, and October. This gentle decline suggests a mild seasonal variation, with the warmest months still maintaining a balmy atmosphere perfect for enjoying Tokelau's natural beauty. Overall, even the cooler months remain inviting, ensuring a pleasant experience for visitors year-round.
In Tokelau, precipitation patterns reveal distinct seasonal variations that influence both climate and lifestyle. The islands experience their lowest rainfall in July, with Atafu receiving just 122 mm (4.8 in), showcasing a drier phase in the annual cycle. In contrast, February brings a saturation of moisture, particularly in Fakaofo, where precipitation peaks at a significant 375 mm (14.8 in). The number of rainy days also fluctuates throughout the year; January sees the fewest with 19 days of rain in Atafu, while October is the wettest month in Nukunonu, registering up to 27 days of precipitation. This interplay of rainfall amount and rainy days paints a picture of Tokelau's dynamic climate, highlighting both the challenges and natural rhythms faced by its inhabitants.
Tokelau experiences a consistent level of humidity throughout the year, with values ranging from a minimum of 74% in December at Fakaofo to a humid 81% in August at Atafu. This slight increase in humidity during the middle of the year reflects the island's tropical climate, where warm temperatures and moisture often coincide. Overall, the high humidity levels contribute to the lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems of Tokelau, making it a unique and inviting destination year-round.
In Tokelau, February emerges as a peak month for UV radiation, with both Nukunonu and Atafu recording an average daily maximum UV Index (UVI) of 16. This strikingly high UVI indicates a consistent trend throughout the region, suggesting a need for increased awareness and protective measures against harmful sun exposure during this time. As residents and visitors alike prepare for the sun's intensity, understanding these UV Index trends becomes essential for promoting health and safety in Tokelau's vibrant environments.
UV Risk Categories
In Tokelau, sunshine duration reveals interesting trends as the seasons change. February sees Fakaofo basking in 216 hours of sunshine, while Nukunonu enjoys a slightly brighter month with 221 hours. March marks a notable increase in daylight for Fakaofo, reaching 306 hours, suggesting a transition into sunnier days. October shines brightly on Atafu, with the highest recorded sunshine this data highlights—312 hours—indicating a peak in sunny conditions as the year draws to a close. This pattern reflects the overall trend of increasing sunlight as the months progress, making Tokelau a delightful sun-soaked destination.
In Tokelau, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly throughout the year and across its atolls. For instance, Nukunonu sees a modest 21% chance of sunny days in February, suggesting a cooler and wetter climate during that time. In contrast, the month of September in Fakaofo booms with a striking 77% likelihood of sunshine, marking it as an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach outings. This notable increase highlights a trend where the early months of the year tend to be wetter, while the latter months offer a much sunnier escape for residents and visitors alike.
In Tokelau, daylight hours exhibit a noticeable seasonal variation, with Fakaofo experiencing around 11 hours of sunlight in June and extending to an inviting 12 hours in December. This trend reflects the region's mild tropical climate, where longer days in the summer months invite more outdoor activities and community events. The additional hour of daylight in December not only enhances the beauty of the island's stunning landscapes but also encourages a vibrant lifestyle, making it an ideal time for both locals and visitors to soak in the sun and explore the rich culture of Tokelau.
Atafu, Tokelau boasts a warm tropical climate, characterized by consistent temperatures that hover around 25°C (78°F) to 30°C (86°F) throughout the year. Despite the balmy weather, visitors should be prepared for significant rainfall, particularly in February when precipitation peaks at 350 mm (13.8 in). Humidity levels, often reaching up to 81% in the height of summer, contribute to the island's lush greenery and vibrant ecosystems. With such captivating weather patterns, Atafu climate perfectly exemplifies the allure of a tropical paradise.
Fakaofo, Tokelau, boasts a warm tropical climate characterized by consistently high temperatures throughout the year, with daily highs often reaching around 30°C (86°F). The humidity hovers between 74% and 80%, making the air feel quite muggy, especially during the wetter months. February is typically the rainiest, receiving up to 375 mm (14.8 in) of rainfall, while June and August provide a brief reprieve with less precipitation. Despite the humidity and rain, the average temperatures remain pleasantly around 27°C (81°F) to 28°C (82°F), ensuring that visitors can enjoy the island's beauty year-round. For more details on what to expect, check the Fakaofo climate.
Nukunonu, Tokelau boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average highs hovering around 27-30°C (81-86°F). The island experiences its most significant rainfall in February, where precipitation can reach 374 mm (14.7 in), while humidity tends to remain high, averaging between 74-80% throughout the year. Despite the wet months, the brief but consistent rainfall nurtures lush landscapes, making the environment uniquely vibrant. With a steady temperature and lush surroundings, Nukunonu is a destination where tropical beauty meets island charm. For more detailed insights, check out the Nukunonu climate.
In examining the climate of Tokelau, distinct trends emerge across its three atolls. Temperatures remain pleasantly warm throughout the year, with December recording a minimum of 25°C (76°F) in Fakaofo and peaking at 30°C (86°F) in Atafu. This warmth coincides with a notable increase in humidity, averaging 74% in December in Fakaofo and reaching its peak at 81% in August in Atafu. Furthermore, the precipitation patterns reveal a significant variation, with a minimum of 122 mm (4.8 in) in July in Atafu contrasting sharply with a maximum of 375 mm (14.8 in) in February in Fakaofo. Overall, Tokelau's climate showcases a tropical character, featuring consistent warmth, high humidity, and a distinct wet season, making it a unique maritime environment.