Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Northern Province, Sri Lanka, is characterized by a tropical savanna classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system. Throughout the year, temperatures exhibit significant variation, with a minimum of 16°C (62°F) recorded in February, reflecting the cooler months. The region typically experiences a warm average temperature of 28°C (83°F), highlighting its overall tropical nature. Peaks in temperature can reach a scorching 38°C (101°F) in July, showcasing the intense heat of the local climate during the summer months. This climatic profile plays a crucial role in shaping the environmental and agricultural landscape of the province.
Temperature patterns in Northern Province, Sri Lanka, reveal a distinct seasonal progression, characterized by a gradual warming trend leading into the hotter months. The year begins with mild temperatures in January, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), but as February approaches, temperatures dip slightly to a minimum of 16°C (62°F), peaking at 34°C (93°F). March marks the onset of increased warmth, with averages rising to 28°C (82°F) and maximums hitting 37°C (99°F), while April and May reach the peak summer heat, consistently displaying maximums of 38°C (100°F) and 38°C (101°F), respectively. Following the peak months, June experiences a slight cooling with averages of 30°C (85°F), leading into July and August, which maintain similar temperature patterns. September to November then witness a gradual cooling trend, ending the year with milder temperatures in December, showcasing the region's tropical savanna climate and its substantial seasonal temperature variations.
In the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, temperatures vary slightly among Point Pedro, Kilinochchi, and Jaffna. Point Pedro experiences a minimum of 22°C (72°F) in February and peaks at 34°C (93°F) in May, while Kilinochchi records a minimum of 21°C (71°F) in January and a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in May. Jaffna sees its temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) in February to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in May. For more detailed monthly temperatures, check out monthly temperatures in Point Pedro, monthly temperatures in Kilinochchi, and monthly temperatures in Jaffna.
Precipitation patterns in Northern Province, Sri Lanka, are characterized by a distinct wet and dry season, highlighting the climatic diversity of the region. The year begins with relatively high moisture levels in January, recording 93 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall over 9 days, followed by a sharp decline in February to just 22 mm (0.9 in) over 5 days. As the dry season continues into March and April, rainfall remains limited, accumulating only 27 mm (1.1 in) and 34 mm (1.3 in), respectively. However, May sees a resurgence in precipitation, with 58 mm (2.3 in), as the transition into the wet season begins.
The latter part of the year is marked by significant increases in rainfall, culminating in peak precipitation during the October to November transition. October experiences the highest monthly total of 204 mm (8.0 in) spread across 20 days, while November reaches a staggering 348 mm (13.7 in) over 24 days, making it the wettest month of the year. December also contributes heavily to the region's rainfall with 222 mm (8.7 in) over 18 days, solidifying the late-year pattern of intense rainfall that influences both the ecosystem and agriculture in Northern Province.
In Northern Province, Sri Lanka, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from the beginning of the year toward summer. Starting in January with 265 hours, the region witnesses a consistent rise, peaking in March at 346 hours. This upward trajectory suggests an approach to the dry season, where clear skies become more prevalent, allowing for extended periods of sunshine. Notably, April and May maintain this high level of sunlight with 345 and 346 hours, respectively, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities and agricultural pursuits.
However, as the year progresses toward the monsoon season, a slight decline in sunshine hours is observed. June and July continue to provide ample sunlight, with 337 and 344 hours, respectively, before a gradual reduction begins in September, where 324 hours reflect the onset of cloudier, wetter conditions. The months of October and November experience further decreases, with 318 and 274 hours of sunshine, illustrating the impact of increased rainfall during this period. December sees a modest rebound to 302 hours, yet it remains below the sunniest months. This pattern highlights the critical interplay between precipitation and sunshine, shaping the climate dynamics in Northern Province throughout the year.
The UV Index in Northern Province, Sri Lanka, consistently indicates extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation for most of the year, with values often surpassing 12. Notably, the highest UV Index occurs from March to April, reaching 14 and 15, respectively, marking these months as particularly hazardous for sun exposure. With a burn time of only 10 minutes required to sustain skin damage, residents and visitors are advised to take extensive precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen, especially during midday hours when the sun is most intense.
As the year progresses, the UV Index slightly fluctuates but remains predominantly high. From May to August, values hover around 12 to 14, showcasing the continued risk of extreme exposure. In contrast, the index dips towards the end of the year, with November reporting a 11, and December experiencing a very high index of 10 but with an extended burn time of 15 minutes. This trend illustrates the persistent UV threat in the region, emphasizing the necessity for sun safety measures throughout the year, particularly during peak summer months when the potential for skin damage is at its highest.
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In Northern Province, Sri Lanka, daylight duration remains relatively stable throughout the year, generally fluctuating between 11 and 12 hours. January and February see a consistent 11 hours of daylight, providing a solid foundation for daily activities and agricultural practices. As March rolls in, daylight extends to 12 hours, a trend that continues through the following months of April, May, and into June. This period of longer daylight can enhance productivity and is particularly beneficial for farming and outdoor tourism.
As the wet season approaches, daylight duration remains unchanged at 12 hours from July through September. However, a decline occurs in October, November, and December, bringing daylight back to 11 hours. This slight reduction aligns with the transition into the shorter days typical of the latter part of the year. Overall, this consistent pattern in daylight duration underscores the region's relatively stable equatorial climate, enabling residents to plan activities and agricultural cycles with a reliable understanding of daylight availability across the seasons.
Jaffna, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) in January to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in April and May. Precipitation is minimal in the early months, with February having only 17 mm (0.7 in), escalating significantly in November, which sees 396 mm (15.6 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant, particularly from February to May, with March recording the highest at 346 hours. For more details, visit Jaffna climate.
Kilinochchi, located in Sri Lanka's Northern Province, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in May, with maximum temperatures peaking at 35°C (95°F) in April and May. The region sees significant rainfall, particularly in November, which receives 357 mm (14.0 in), while January is relatively drier with only 100 mm (3.9 in). Sunshine hours are ample, with March showing the highest at 347 hours, making Kilinochchi an offbeat destination for sun-seekers. For more detailed information, visit Kilinochchi climate.
Point Pedro, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. The average monthly temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in May, with maximum temperatures peaking at 34°C (93°F) in both July and May. Precipitation is highest in November, with 365 mm (14.4 in), contributing to a wet season, while the driest months are February and March, receiving only 20 mm (0.8 in) and 17 mm (0.7 in), respectively. The area enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in March and May, each with around 348 hours. For more detailed information, visit Point Pedro climate.
Valvedditturai, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 26°C (79°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in May. The area sees significant rainfall, particularly in November, which averages 365 mm (14.4 in), making it the wettest month. Sunshine is abundant, with over 300 hours in several months, peaking at 348 hours in May. The combination of warmth and rainfall supports lush vegetation, making it a unique destination. For more detailed information, visit Valvedditturai climate.
Vavuniya, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and considerable rainfall. Average temperatures range from a mild 25°C (77°F) in January to up to 29°C (84°F) in the warmer months, peaking at 38°C (100°F) in April and May. The monsoon season brings heavy rains, particularly in October (235 mm) and November (259 mm), contributing to lush vegetation. Despite the precipitation, Vavuniya enjoys ample sunshine, with March seeing up to 345 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Vavuniya climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Northern Province, Sri Lanka, exhibits distinct patterns of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours that significantly influence the region's environmental dynamics and daily life. The enduring tropical savanna climate presents warm temperatures year-round, alongside marked seasonal variations in rainfall and sunshine that shape agricultural practices and outdoor activities. The consistently high UV Index, particularly during the peak sunlight months, necessitates vigilant sun safety measures for residents and visitors alike. Overall, understanding these climatic factors is essential for effective planning and sustainable development in Northern Province, allowing its communities to thrive in harmony with their vibrant and complex environment.