By Katalina Siasau
A chilly 8.6° Celsius recorded in ‘Eua early this morning has broken the record for the lowest minimum temperature ever recorded in Tonga.
The Tonga Meteorological Service observed the new record at 6:30 am today, 6 July 2026, recording a minimum temperature of 8.6°C at the Hango Automatic Weather Station in ‘Eua.
This surpasses the previous record of 8.7°C, which was recorded at Fuaʻamotu on 8 September 1994.
"It is important to note that the previous lowest minimum temperature recorded in 1994 was an El Nino Year. The new national lowest minimum temperature being set here in 2026 is also an El Nino Year. This highlights a minimum temperature climatological correlation pattern and El Nino Years for Tonga," the Tonga Meteorological Services stated.
"The unusually cold conditions experienced across Tonga are associated with the current El Niño event that is present across the Pacific Ocean."
During El Niño, the presence and domination of the southeast trade winds circulate cooler air masses from the south and from mid-latitude regions in Tonga during this time of the year. This can result in colder nights and lower overnight temperatures, particularly during the dry season. Clear skies and light winds overnight also allow heat to escape more efficiently from the Earth's surface, leading to significantly cooler early morning temperatures.
Tonga Met advised the public, particularly the elderly, young children, and those with underlying health conditions, to take appropriate precautions during these cold conditions. Farmers are also encouraged to monitor livestock and crops that may be sensitive to unusually low temperatures.
