Last updated: May 3, 2025
In Neiafu, Tonga, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin against harmful sun exposure. With UV levels peaking between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, understanding these fluctuations can significantly aid in sunburn prevention and promote overall skin health. Neiafu’s tropical Af climate brings about intense UV radiation, particularly during midday hours, making it crucial for residents and visitors alike to be aware of the risks and take appropriate precautions while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
The UV Index for the day showcases a dynamic range of sun exposure, beginning with low levels of 1 from 07:00 to 08:00, making it a great time for morning activities. As the day progresses, the intensity ramps up, peaking at 9 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating that sun protection is a must during these hours. This is especially crucial for outdoor enthusiasts planning their midday excursions. As the afternoon fades into the evening, the UV levels decrease once again, dropping to 5 at 15:00, then tapering down to 1 by 17:00 through 19:00. Overall, it's a day where sun safety awareness is key, particularly from 11:00 to 14:00, ensuring everyone enjoys the outdoors responsibly!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | 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 |
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 |