25 Jun Tonga Meteorological Service Declares El Niño Conditions for Tonga
The Tonga Meteorological Service (TMS) has officially declared the onset of El Niño conditions affecting Tonga and the wider Pacific region following the latest climate monitoring and forecasting assessments.
El Niño is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. For Tonga, El Niño conditions are typically associated with below-average rainfall, increased risk of drought, warmer temperatures, and an elevated risk of severe tropical cyclones during the cyclone season.
Current climate outlooks indicate that El Niño conditions are expected to persist over the coming months and may continue into 2027.
A drought warning has already been issued for Ha’apai, while drought alerts remain in place for Niuafo’ou, Niuatoputapu, Vava’u, Tongatapu, and ‘Eua.
Director of the Tonga Meteorological Service, Mr. Laitia Fifita, emphasized that although El Niño is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon, it can have far-reaching impacts on island nations such as Tonga, where communities rely heavily on rainfall for freshwater supplies.
He stressed the importance of early preparedness and encouraged both communities and government agencies to take proactive measures to mitigate the potential impacts of water shortages, prolonged heat, and severe weather events.
Now more than ever, it is important for the community to come together from schools, church groups, community groups to help each other during these times. While the government undertakes continued monitoring and assistance, MORDI Tonga will continue to do their part to facilitate assistance where needed.
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