Trends in mean maximum temperature, mean minimum temperature and mean relative humidity for Lautoka, Fiji during 2003–2013

Abstract

The current work observes the trends in Lautoka’s temperature and relative humidity during the period 2003–2013, which were analyzed using the recently updated data obtained from Fiji Meteorological Services (FMS). Four elements, mean maximum temperature, mean minimum temperature along with diurnal temperature range (DTR) and mean relative humidity are investigated. From 2003–2013, the annual mean temperature has been enhanced between 0.02 and 0.080C. The heating is more in minimum temperature than in maximum temperature, resulting in a decrease of diurnal temperature range. The statistically significant increase was mostly seen during the summer months of December and January. Mean Relative Humidity has also increased from 3% to 8%. The bases of abnormal climate conditions are also studied. These bases were defined with temperature or humidity anomalies in their appropriate time sequences. These established the observed findings and exhibited that climate has been becoming gradually damper and heater throughout Lautoka during this period. While we are only at an initial phase in the probable inclinations of temperature changes, ecological reactions to recent climate change are already evidently noticeable. So it is proposed that it would be easier to identify climate alteration in a small island nation like Fiji.