By Tupou Vaipulu Jr
Most of Tonga can expect warmer days and mainly fine weather over the Christmas Holiday, with a few light showers for southern Tonga and heavier rain in the far north.
Tonga Meteorological Services (MET), forecasts cloudy periods, light showers and mainly fine weather for the next 10 days for Tongatapu and 'Eua.
However, the two Niuas are advised to listen to radio for weather forecast updates as there is a 50 - 90 per cent chance of rain or heavy showers this week from 18 - 22 December.
The Chief Meteorologist, Garry Vite said that there is a higher chance of fine weather throughout this week and next week, mostly, in Tongatapu and 'Eua.
"The weather will be fine however, there will be light showers like we've been having in the past few days," he said.
Ha'apai and Vava'u
Meanwhile, people in Ha'apai and Vava'u are advised to carry umbrellas or rain coats in case of passing showers, expect muddy conditions in low lying areas and to consider carefully planning outdoor activities like BBQs, tapa making or any forms of celebrations.
There is also a strong wind warning (25 - 33 knots) for Tongatapu, 'Eua, Ha'apai and Vava'u for the next six days, before Christmas.
Starting on Christmas Day, 25 December, all of Tonga is predicted to enjoy good wind conditions, which is also great for kite surfing.
Mr Vite said that with the strong winds in the next couple of days, expect moderate to rough seas here in Tonga and the outer islands as well.
The forecast is swells 2 - 4 meters wave height and low swell for all of Tonga in the next 10 days. Small fishing boats are encouraged to listen to the radio for possible small crafts advisory. It will also be a good week for surfing for beginners and fishing for small boats.
In the next 10 days, temperatures will be warmer during the day and comfortable at night. The public is advised to stay hydrated, "keep a spare change of clothes if you're doing hard labour and pay special attention to those with asthma," said Mr Vite.
Meanwhile, to escape the heat, families are gathering at beaches for picnics and cooling off, at swimming places.
