UV Index in Lapaha, Tonga

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In Lapaha, Tonga, awareness of the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With the local climate characterized by warm temperatures and high UV exposure, understanding the UV levels throughout the day is essential for enjoying the outdoors safely. During peak hours, particularly between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the UV Index can soar to 8, indicating a risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. By staying informed about these UV levels, you can take the necessary precautions and protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of the sun.

Hourly UV Index in Lapaha

As the day unfolds, the UV Index paints a vivid picture of sun exposure. At 07:00, the sun is just waking up with a UV Index of 0, then steadily rises to 1 by 08:00. By 09:00, it nudges up to 2, before hitting a moderate 4 at 10:00. The intensity peaks at 12:00 and 13:00, reaching a notable 8, indicating a time when protective measures are crucial. As the afternoon rolls on, the index begins to descend, dropping to 7 at 14:00, then falling further to 5 by 15:00. The sun's strength wanes into the evening, landing at 2 by 16:00, and tapering off to 1 by 17:00 and 18:00. Finally, by 19:00, the index returns to 0, as the sun sets, marking the end of the high UV exposure day. Remember to protect your skin during those peak hours!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	0	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	2	low	45 min
10:00	4	moderate	30 min
11:00	6	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	5	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Lapaha

The UV Index experiences significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels occurring from January to April, where the index reaches extreme levels (15-16) and a burn time of only 10 minutes. November and December also present extreme UV conditions. May marks a transition to very high levels (UV Index 9), with a burn time extending to 15 minutes, while June to August see a decrease in UV intensity yet maintain very high levels, particularly in July and August. As September through October approach extreme levels again, it’s crucial for residents and visitors to take precautions year-round. Sunscreen, protective clothing, and limited sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM) are highly advised, especially during the high-risk months of January to April and September to November.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Lapaha, Tonga

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Lapaha. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Lapaha, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Lapaha UV Index with Other Tonga Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Lapaha compares to other major locations across Tonga. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Lapaha's solar exposure compared to other cities in Tonga. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Lapaha	16	15	14	11	9	7	8	10	11	13	15	16
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
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