Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Tonga, where the intense tropical sun can pose serious risks. Monitoring UV levels is crucial for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining skin health, as high levels of ultraviolet radiation can lead to immediate discomfort and long-term skin issues. In Tonga’s tropical climate, particularly from late morning to early afternoon, the UV Index can soar to dangerous heights, reaching peaks of 13 around noon. Being aware of these fluctuations enables individuals to take necessary precautions and enjoy the sun safely.
The UV Index for the day showcases a dynamic shift in sun intensity, peaking at 1 PM with a remarkable 13. As the morning unfolds, the index gradually climbs from a low 1 at 7 AM, reaching 5 by 9 AM. The sun's power ramps up significantly, hitting 9 by 10 AM and cresting at 12 and 13 during the late morning and noon hours. However, by mid-afternoon, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 10 at 2 PM, then sliding to 6 by 3 PM, before tapering off to 3 at 4 PM. As the day winds down, the UV Index falls back to 1 by 5 PM, and finally rests at 0 after 7 PM, signaling a golden opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while taking sun safety precautions during the height of the day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index shows significant seasonal fluctuations, with extreme levels persisting from January through November, indicating that precautions should be taken year-round. The months of March through May, with UV Index values reaching as high as 14, represent the peak risk for skin damage, where even short exposure can result in burns in as little as 10 minutes. While there is a slight reduction in the UV Index during the summer months of June and July, it remains high at 12, emphasizing the need for vigilance. As fall approaches, UV levels stabilize but still stay elevated, particularly in September and October, at 13. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to utilize sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours, especially between late winter and early autumn, to reduce their risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Douala UVI | 10 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
| Kousseri UVI | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 |
| Garoua UVI | 11 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| Yaounde UVI | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 11 |
| Tonga | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
| Bamenda UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 |