Geography and Environment

Geography and Environment of Tonga

Terrain, climate, natural resources, hazards, and environmental conditions of Tonga.

Terrain: most islands have limestone base formed from uplifted coral formation; others have limestone overlying volcanic base
Climate: tropical; modified by trade winds; warm season (December to May), cool season (May to December)
Highest Point: 1033 — unnamed location on Kao Island 1,033 m
Lowest Point: Pacific Ocean 0 m

Natural Resources: Fish and fertile soil remain Tonga's primary natural resources. The surrounding Pacific waters support a rich marine environment, providing fish stocks that are central to both subsistence and commercial activity, including tuna and other deep-sea species. The islands' volcanic soils are highly productive, supporting the cultivation of crops such as squash, vanilla, root vegetables, and tropical fruits. Tonga also has limited timber resources and some potential for renewable energy development, particularly solar and wind, given its geographic setting across more than 170 islands in the South Pacific.
Natural Hazards: cyclones (October to April); earthquakes and volcanic activity on Fonuafo'ou

Current Environmental Issues: deforestation results as more and more land is being cleared for agriculture and settlement; some damage to coral reefs from starfish and indiscriminate coral and shell collectors; overhunting threatens native sea turtle populations
International Agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements

Detailed geography