March weather appears to retain the general climate of
February, without any drastic weather transformations. Notable is the scarce reduction of monthly average temperature with a peak of 29.6°C (85.3°F) from the preceding peak of 29.9°C (85.8°F) in February. The diminishing rainfall and slightly shorter daylight token the inception of the transition towards the less humid months. Sea temperatures remain more or less constant. The UV index stays at its peak, necessitating continued use of sun protection.
Temperature
Nuku'alofa greets March with an average high-temperature of a still moderately hot 29.6°C (85.3°F), marking a slight deviation from the preceding month. An average minimum temperature of 23.6°C (74.5°F) marks the month of March.
Heat index
The heat index in March is calculated to be a torrid 36°C (96.8°F). Implement additional safety measures to avoid heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Persistent activity might trigger heatstroke.
It is noted that heat index values are ascertained for locations in the shade and with gentle breezes. A rise in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees may result from direct sunlight exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'real feel', determines the feeling of heat when you account for the relative humidity. A person's impression of weather can be swayed by numerous aspects, among them metabolic variations, pregnancy, and activity levels. Keep in mind that direct sunshine exposure can amplify the weather's effects, possibly increasing the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly relevant to children. Young ones are generally at greater risk than adults due to their limited sweating ability. In addition, their large skin surface relative to their small bodies and higher heat production from their activities add to their vulnerability.
The body's self-cooling mechanism is rooted in perspiration, where evaporating sweat cools down excessive warmth. When relative humidity increases, the body's capacity to evaporate heat decreases, leading to a heightened sense of warmth. The body faces dehydration threats when its cooling efforts are outpaced by excessive heat gain.
Humidity
The most humid month in Nuku'alofa is March, with an average relative humidity of 79%.
Rainfall
In Nuku'alofa, in March, during 19 rainfall days, 206mm (8.11") of precipitation is typically accumulated. Throughout the year, there are 180 rainfall days, and 1721mm (67.76") of precipitation is accumulated.
Sea temperature
With an average sea temperature of 28.1°C (82.6°F), March is the month with the warmest seawater in Nuku'alofa,
Tonga.
Note: Surface water temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) are seen as ideal and highly pleasant for extended enjoyment in all water activities.
Daylight
In March, the average length of the day in Nuku'alofa is 12h and 12min.
On the first day of March in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, sunrise is at 06:38 and sunset at 19:07. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:48 and sunset at 18:41 +13.
Sunshine
The months with the most sunshine are
January and March, with an average of 18h of sunshine.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index in Nuku'alofa 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 radiation for ordinary individuals.
Note: The maximum UV index, 12 during March, leads to the following recommendations:
Enforce every vital precaution. Those with light skin could endure burns in a matter of minutes. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the Sun emits the most powerful UV radiation. Limit direct exposure to the Sun during these hours. Enhance your sun protection with tightly woven, yet airy clothing. Even on overcast days, ensure the application and frequent reapplication of sunscreen with at least an SPF 30, especially post swim or outdoor exercise. Heads up! UV intensity is amplified by reflections from water and sand.