Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Hihifo, Tonga, is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health under the sun. With its tropical Af climate, this picturesque locale sees fluctuating UV levels throughout the day, peaking at an average of 8 between noon and 1 PM. Being aware of these levels helps you take preventative measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. As you revel in Hihifo's stunning beaches and vibrant outdoors, knowing when UV exposure is at its highest will empower you to enjoy the sun safely and wisely.
The UV Index throughout the day paints a dynamic picture of sun exposure. Starting with a gentle rise, the index is low at 1 during the early hours, slowly creeping up to 2 by 09:00. The real intensity kicks in around 10:00, soaring to 5, and reaching a peak of 8 at noon and 13:00. As the afternoon wears on, the index gradually declines, slipping to 7 by 14:00 and further dropping to 4 by 15:00. As the sun retreats, so does the UV intensity, falling back to 1 by 17:00 and finally to 0 by 19:00. Overall, from midday to early afternoon, it's essential to take precautions against the sun's rays, but later hours offer a welcome reprieve.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk occurring during the winter and early spring months. From January to May, the UV Index remains in the extreme category, peaking at 16, with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. The summer months, particularly June and July, see a slight decrease; the UV Index falls to 8 and 9, categorized as very high, with a burn time increasing to 15 minutes. As we transition back into late summer and autumn, the UV Index again escalates to extreme levels in August through November, with values ranging from 12 to 15 and burn times reverting to 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take necessary precautions during high-risk months, particularly from January to May and again in August to November, by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to ensure safety against harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tatakamotonga UVI | 16 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Haveluloto UVI | 16 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Lapaha UVI | 16 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Nuku'alofa UVI | 16 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Neiafu UVI | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
| Hihifo | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 |