Arriving next, the weather in
February retains a semblance to
January with a mild rise in the minimum temperature. Although it brings one of the lowest rainfall amounts of the year, the frequency of rainy days dwindles. Despite this, the sea maintains its inviting warmth. While the daylight hours rise marginally, residents of
Chuuk receive ample sunshine, ensuring vibrant outdoor conditions. With the slightly improved weather compared to January, February provides room for the inhabitants to enjoy more outdoor activities without worrying too much about the rain.
Temperature
Chuuk's coldest months, January and February, record an average high-temperature of 29.9°C (85.8°F).
Heat index
The average heat index in February is estimated at a sweltering 37°C (98.6°F). Take extra precautions, as heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible. Sustained activity may result in heatstroke.
Understanding the heat index involves considering values for shaded locales with light wind. Heat index values may surge by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees in the presence of direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', reflects the blend of air temperature and relative humidity to give a temperature impression. A person's impression of weather can be shaped by many aspects, among them metabolic variations, pregnancy, and levels of physical activity. Given direct exposure to sunlight, one might experience a rise in the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly meaningful for babies and toddlers. In general, children are more at risk than adults because they sweat less. Furthermore, the large skin surface compared to their small bodies and the high heat production due to their actions contribute to this vulnerability.
The human body cools itself through perspiration, as excessive warmth is removed from the body through sweat evaporation. In the presence of elevated relative humidity, the evaporation rate decreases. This reduction leads to increased body heat retention compared to conditions of dry air. When body heat isn't effectively managed, risks of dehydration and overheating amplify.
Humidity
The least humid month is February, with an average relative humidity of 77.7%.
Rainfall
February is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 12.2 days and accumulates 163mm (6.42") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
With an average sea temperature of 28°C (82.4°F), February is the month with the coldest seawater in Chuuk.
Note: Water temperature ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) is seen as very warm and delightful by everyone. During these temperatures, water activities become enjoyable, without causing discomfort for extended periods.
Daylight
In Chuuk, the average length of the day in February is 11h and 53min.
On the first day of February, sunrise is at 06:12 and sunset at 18:01. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:06 and sunset at 18:05 +10.
Sunshine
February has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 7.1h of sunshine.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index in Chuuk are January through
October, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index value of 11, and more, symbolizes an excessive health risk from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the average person.
Note: The daily high UV index of 12 during February translates into the following recommendations:
Adopt every precaution of necessity, unprotected skin and eyes may suffer burns instantly. Stay out of direct sunlight and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is strongest, but remember that shade devices may not offer full sun protection. Enhance your sun protection with tightly woven, yet airy clothing. Frequent application of a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is crucial, reapply it every two hours or immediately post swimming or outdoor exercise. Caution! The mirror effect of sand and water ups the UV radiation strength.