The 2024 Annual Climate Summary from the Fiji Meteorological Service reveals a continued warming trend across Fiji, underscoring long-term climate change impacts. Since 1959, Fiji has seen its national average maximum air temperature increase by 1.2°C, with the average minimum temperature rising by 1.0°C. These changes were statistically significant at the 95% confidence level, emphasizing the substantial impact of global warming on the region.
Keiyasi recorded the highest annual mean maximum air temperature in 2024, reaching 34.5°C. Other high temperatures were observed at RKS Lodoni (32.5°C), Viwa (32.0°C), Yaqara (31.5°C), and Lautoka Mill (31.1°C). Monasavu recorded the coolest annual mean maximum temperature at 24.8°C, followed by Nadarivatu at 27.7°C, hinting at significant temperature variations across Fiji.
The hottest recorded day was February 26 at RKS Lodoni, peaking at 37.8°C. Comparatively, Viwa experienced the highest annual average minimum temperature at 25.1°C. Monasavu again reported the lowest annual minimum for night-time temperatures, averaging 18.7°C, with Nadarivatu following at 20.2°C. The coldest minimum temperature was 10.9°C, documented in Nadarivatu on August 7.
These figures illustrate the substantial shifts in Fiji’s climate, mirroring global patterns driven by increasing greenhouse gas concentrations. As evidenced in previous reports, such as in 2023, Fiji has consistently observed rising temperatures across decades, heightening the importance of environmental awareness and strategic climate adaptation policies. These findings stress the need for robust measures to combat climate change while encouraging innovation in sustainable practices to enhance community resilience and environmental protection.
Overall, while the rising temperatures pose challenges, they also open avenues for transformative approaches to climate resilience and sustainable development in Fiji. By leveraging data and insights from these reports, stakeholders can better plan and implement strategies to adapt to a changing climate while fostering a sustainable future.