December in
Nuku'alofa exhibits the climax of sun, heat, and wet conditions. The month’s temperature spirals to a high of 28.7°C (83.7°F). It outpours the maximum amount of rainfall, with 175mm (6.89") accounting for the month's precipitation. Although the day's length is at its pinnacle, sunshine hours witness a substantial rise. The sea warms up to be at its annual highest, making watersports like snorkeling and diving an irresistible affair.
Temperature
The shift into December uncovers an average high-temperature of a still moderately hot 28.7°C (83.7°F), subtly different from the previous month. An average low-temperature of 22.5°C (72.5°F) is recorded during the nights in December.
Heat index
December's average heat index is appraised at a hot 33°C (91.4°F). Ensure extra safety steps, heat exhaustion and heat cramps are likely. Long activity might lead to heatstroke.
Heat index details are generally centered around shaded locations and a mild breeze. The heat index might be elevated by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees due to direct sun exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', is an estimation of the warmth sensation when considering humidity levels. This effect is personal, shaped by the individual's physical activity and heat sensitivity, influenced by factors including wind, clothing, and metabolic variances. Given direct exposure to sunlight, one might experience a rise in the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are essentially critical for children. In general, younger individuals are at greater risk than adults because they tend to sweat less. Also, having a larger skin surface to body size ratio and greater heat production due to their active behavior contribute to this danger.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in December is 75%.
Rainfall
In Nuku'alofa, in December, during 15 rainfall days, 175mm (6.89") of precipitation is typically accumulated. In Nuku'alofa, during the entire year, the rain falls for 180 days and collects up to 1721mm (67.76") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
In Nuku'alofa,
Tonga, the average seawater temperature in December is 26.6°C (79.9°F).
Note: Surface water temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) are considered superb and highly pleasant for water activities over extended periods.
Daylight
December has the longest days of the year in Nuku'alofa, with an average of 13h and 24min of daylight.
On the first day of December, sunrise is at 05:50 and sunset at 19:10. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:02 and sunset at 19:26 +13.
Sunshine
The average sunshine in December is 12h.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index are
January through
March,
November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index estimate of 11, and higher, represents an extreme health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: A maximum high daily UV index of 12 during December translates into the following directions:
Practice every essential safety step. People with fair skin could receive burns in fewer than 5 minutes. Remember that UV radiation from the Sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Make an effort to limit direct sun exposure during this time. Outfit yourself in sun-safe attire, like long sleeves, pants, a hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Frequent application of a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is crucial, reapply it every two hours or immediately post swimming or outdoor exercise. Be on guard! The reflective nature of sand and water boosts UV exposure.