Last updated: January 18, 2025
Southern Sri Lanka, classified under the Köppen-Geiger climate classification as Af, showcases a tropical rainforest climate characterized by consistently high temperatures throughout the year. The minimum temperature hovers around 20°C (69°F) in January, while the average temperature settles at an inviting 27°C (81°F). The region experiences its peak warmth in February, where temperatures can ascend to a maximum of 35°C (95°F), highlighting the area's relatively stable and warm climatic conditions ideal for diverse flora and fauna.
In Southern Sri Lanka, the temperature patterns exhibit a warm and consistent trend throughout the year, with minimal seasonal variation. January marks the onset of the year with a minimum temperature of 20°C (69°F), gradually increasing to 23°C (74°F) by April. Average temperatures remain stable around 26°C (80°F) to 28°C (82°F) from January to April, peaking in early summer. By February, maximum temperatures reach their highest at 35°C (95°F) and slightly decrease to 32°C (90°F) by May. Despite these fluctuations, summer months preserve a comforting warmth with maximum temperatures hovering around 31°C (88°F) from June through November. As the year closes, December sees a slight dip in minimum temperatures but retains an average of 27°C (80°F), affirming the region’s tropical climate characterized by warmth year-round.
Galle experiences a mild climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) in November to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in March (monthly temperatures in Galle). In nearby Mirissa city, the temperatures are slightly cooler, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F) in January and peaking at 35°C (95°F) in February (monthly temperatures in Mirissa city). Hikkaduwa sees temperatures starting at 23°C (73°F) in January, and reaching a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in March (monthly temperatures in Hikkaduwa).
Southern Sri Lanka experiences a distinct precipitation pattern that peaks during the monsoon months. From January to February, rainfall remains relatively low, with 71 mm (2.8 in) and 66 mm (2.6 in), respectively, accompanied by an average of 11 to 12 rainy days. However, the onset of March brings a noticeable increase in precipitation to 105 mm (4.1 in), and by April, rainfall escalates to 153 mm (6.0 in) as the wet season begins to take hold. May witnesses the highest monthly rainfall at 282 mm (11.1 in), falling over approximately 28 days, marking the true peak of the wet season.
As the year progresses into the subsequent months, precipitation levels remain elevated, with substantial rainfall recorded in June (231 mm, 9.1 in) and July (194 mm, 7.6 in). The pattern continues into August with 209 mm (8.2 in) and September reaching 230 mm (9.0 in). October also contributes significantly with 268 mm (10.6 in), while November sees a moderate amount of 249 mm (9.8 in). December concludes the year with a decrease to 170 mm (6.7 in) over 19 rainy days, showcasing a transition from heavy rainfall to drier periods as the region moves toward the drier seasons ahead.
Southern Sri Lanka enjoys a remarkable pattern of sunshine duration that reflects the changing seasons, with a clear upward trend from winter to summer. Beginning in January, the region experiences approximately 273 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing through February to reach 310 hours. The months of March and April represent the peak of sunny days, with sunshine hours climbing further to 334 and 331 hours, respectively. This marks a vibrant transition to summer, aligning with the region's tropical climate, where longer daylight hours contribute to a warm and sunny atmosphere.
As the summer progresses into May and continues through June and July, sunshine duration remains consistently high, peaking at 337 hours in July. This period exemplifies the region's brightest months, making it ideal for outdoor activities and tourism. While August experiences a slight decrease to 334 hours, the sunshine remains abundant well into the fall months. Notably, September and October see a gradual decline in sunlight, with 315 and 313 hours, respectively, as the region borders the onset of the rainy season. By November, the number of sunshine hours drops to 290, and though December sees a small recovery to 308 hours, it signals the transition back towards the drier, sunnier months, thus highlighting the cyclical nature of sunshine in Southern Sri Lanka.
Southern Sri Lanka experiences a notably high and consistent UV Index throughout the year, reflecting its tropical location and proximity to the equator. From January to May, the UV Index remains in the extreme range, peaking at 15 in both March and April. This translates to a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin, emphasizing the critical need for sun protection during these months. The UV Index only slightly decreases to 14 in February and May, illustrating that residents and visitors should exercise caution even during these marginally less intense months.
As the year progresses into the summer and fall, the UV Index remains elevated, fluctuating between 12 and 14. It reaches 13 in July before stabilizing at 14 for both August and September. Though there is a slight dip to 11 in November and December, these months still warrant vigilance due to their classification as extreme exposure. Regardless of the month, the consistent burn time of 10 minutes serves as a reminder for proper sun safety practices, including the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to mitigate the risks associated with high UV radiation in this region.
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In Southern Sri Lanka, daylight duration exhibits a steady and predictable pattern throughout the year, reflecting its tropical climate and equatorial position. From January to February, daylight spans 11 hours, providing a consistent length of day as the year begins. As the region transitions into March, sunlight increases to 12 hours, maintaining this duration through May and into June. This prolonged daylight supports vibrant ecosystems and sustains the region's agricultural practices, allowing for ample periods of sunlight to nourish crops.
As summer progresses into July and August, daylight remains constant at 12 hours, preserving the lush and vibrant landscapes characteristic of the area. September continues this trend, offering the same generous duration of daylight, before gradually tapering back to 11 hours in October. As the year draws to a close, November and December solidify the return to shorter days, each providing 11 hours of daylight. This cyclical pattern highlights the relatively uniform exposure to sunlight throughout the year, contributing significantly to the region's overall climate and natural rhythms.
Ambalangoda, Sri Lanka, experiences a warm tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 27°C (80°F) to 28°C (82°F) throughout the year. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly in May, which records the highest precipitation at 338 mm (13.3 in). Sunshine hours are plentiful, with February boasting the most at 308 hours. Despite the rain, the warm temperatures and sunshine contribute to a vibrant atmosphere, making Ambalangoda an appealing destination. For more detailed information, visit Ambalangoda climate.
Bentota, Sri Lanka, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 26°C (80°F) to 28°C (82°F), with peaks reaching up to 33°C (91°F) in April. The wettest months are May and June, receiving approximately 347 mm (13.7 in) and 330 mm (13.0 in) of precipitation, respectively. Despite the rain, Bentota experiences ample sunshine, with February boasting the highest at 308 hours. For more detailed information, visit Bentota climate.
Devinuwara, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. Monthly average temperatures range from 26°C (80°F) in the cooler months to 27°C (81°F) consistently across most months, peaking at 35°C (95°F) in February. Precipitation is significant, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in May (252 mm) and October (258 mm), contributing to a rainy season that spans from April to November. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in July with 339 hours, making it a bright yet humid destination. For more detailed information, visit Devinuwara climate.
Galle, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Monthly average temperatures range from 27°C (81°F) to 28°C (82°F), with highs peaking at around 32°C (89°F) from February to April. The region sees considerable precipitation, particularly from May to October, with May recording the highest at 289 mm (11.4 in). Despite this, Galle enjoys ample sunshine, especially in July with 339 hours, making it a vibrant and appealing destination year-round. For more details, visit Galle climate.
Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Monthly averages range from 27°C (80°F) with maximums peaking at 31°C (88°F) in March and April. Rainfall is significant during May, reaching 338 mm (13.3 in), while the dry season typically spans December to February with lower precipitation levels. Abundant sunshine is prevalent, especially from March to April, boasting up to 332 hours of sun. For more details, visit Hikkaduwa climate.
Koggala, Sri Lanka experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average highs around 27-28°C (81-82°F) and lows ranging from 24-25°C (75-77°F). The area receives significant rainfall, peaking in May with 289 mm (11.4 in) and tapering off towards the end of the year. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in March and July, which see over 330 hours of sun. Overall, Koggala's climate combines warmth, substantial precipitation, and ample sunshine, making it a unique tropical destination. For more detailed information, visit Koggala climate.
Matara, Sri Lanka experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 26°C (80°F) to 27°C (81°F), peaking at around 35°C (95°F) in February and dropping to a minimum of 21°C (70°F) in January. The region receives the most precipitation during the monsoon months, with May and November seeing over 250 mm (9.8 in) of rain. Despite this, Matara enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July, which boasts approximately 339 hours of sun. For more details, visit Matara climate.
The climate in Mirissa, Sri Lanka, is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 26°C (80°F) to 27°C (81°F), and peaks reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in February. Rainfall exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the wettest months being May and November, receiving over 250 mm of precipitation. Despite the rainfall, sunshine is abundant, particularly in July, which boasts around 339 hours of sunlight. Visitors can enjoy a tropical ambiance, making it a favorable destination for beach activities. For detailed climate statistics, visit Mirissa city climate.
Tangalle, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, especially from April to November. Average monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (71°F) in January to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) in February and March. The wettest months are typically October and November, with rainfall peaking at 268 mm (10.6 in) in November. Despite the rain, Tangalle enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year, peaking at 341 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Tangalle climate.
Unawatuna, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, especially during the monsoon months. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) in January to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in March and February, with most months maintaining an average around 27°C (81°F). Rainfall peaks in May with 289 mm (11.4 in), tapering off towards the end of the year. Despite the rainfall, sunshine is abundant, with July enjoying the highest at 339 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Unawatuna climate.
Weligama, Sri Lanka experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) in January to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in February, with averages consistently around 26-27°C (79-81°F). The region sees its highest rainfall in May (252 mm) and October (258 mm), while January has the least precipitation (85 mm). Sunshine is abundant, with July offering the most at 339 hours annually. For more detailed information, visit Weligama climate.
In conclusion, Southern Sri Lanka presents a unique climatic profile characterized by high temperatures, substantial precipitation, and consistent sunlight throughout the year. The tropical rainforest climate fosters rich biodiversity, while the notable UV Index emphasizes the importance of sun safety for both residents and visitors. Seasonal variations in temperature, sunshine duration, and UV exposure elucidate the need for adaptive practices in agriculture and tourism, ensuring that both sectors can thrive amidst the region's climatic characteristics. Overall, understanding these elements is crucial for promoting sustainable living and fostering appreciation for the environmental diversity that Southern Sri Lanka has to offer.