Fiji’s national average annual maximum air temperature for 2023 reached 29.9°C, marking an increase of 0.7°C above normal levels. This significant rise has led to 2023 being recorded as the second warmest year for national maximum air temperatures since 1959, according to the latest Climate Report by the Fiji Meteorological Service.
Over the decades, data reveals that the national average mean, maximum, and minimum air temperatures have experienced an overall increase of 1.0°C, 1.1°C, and 0.9°C, respectively, from 1959 to 2023. This warming trend aligns with the global pattern observed with increasing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.
The hottest locations in Fiji throughout 2023 included Rarawai Mill in Ba, which had an annual mean maximum air temperature of 31.4°C, followed closely by Rotuma at 31.1°C, and Lautoka Mill at 31.0°C. Meanwhile, the coolest recorded temperatures occurred at Monasavu with an average minimum temperature of 17.1°C, indicating the considerable temperature variations across the islands.
On January 5, 2023, Labasa experienced the highest daily maximum air temperature of 36.6°C, a notable point within the year’s climate data.
As Fiji continues to monitor these temperature trends, the insights gathered from these reports can be vital in shaping future environmental policies and community adaptations to climate change. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing impact of climate change and the importance of addressing it strategically. With increasing awareness and proactive measures, there is hope that communities can adapt and thrive even in the face of rising temperatures.
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