Last updated: June 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Neiafu, Tonga, is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the region’s tropical climate, UV levels can soar, especially around midday, leading to significant risks like sunburn and long-term skin damage. Awareness of daily UV fluctuations helps residents and visitors alike make informed decisions about sun exposure and protective measures. During peak hours, notably between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when UV Index readings can reach as high as 7, it’s essential to take precautions to enjoy the beautiful Tongan sun safely. Stay informed and safeguard your skin while savoring all that Neiafu has to offer!
Throughout the day, the UV Index showcases a dynamic pattern of intensity. Starting at a gentle 1 by 07:00, the index gradually rises, reaching a moderate 2 by 09:00. As the sun climbs higher, a notable increase occurs, peaking at an elevated 7 from 12:00 to 13:00, marking the day's most intense UV exposure. The index then begins its descent, dipping to 4 by 15:00 and further down to 2 by 16:00. As evening approaches, the UV risk diminishes, with values dropping to 0 at 18:00 and remaining low for the rest of the evening. It's essential to stay protected during those peak midday hours when UV exposure can be at its strongest!
| 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 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 12:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 13:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
The UV Index data reveals notable seasonal changes in ultraviolet radiation, with January through April consistently marked by extreme levels (UV Index 16 to 12), leading to a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. This continues until May, when the index drops slightly to 9, categorized as very high, allowing for a marginally longer exposure time of 15 minutes. The high-risk months to be especially cautious are from February to April and again in August to November, as these months exhibit extreme UV ratings. As summer approaches in June and July, while the UV Index decreases to 7 and 8 respectively, residents and visitors should remain vigilant during July, classified as very high. In contrast, October and November return to extreme levels (UV Index 14 and 15), indicating that sun safety remains crucial even in the fall. For everyone’s safety, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and limit sun exposure during peak hours, particularly in the high-risk months.
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 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 |