Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Hatton, Sri Lanka, being aware of the UV Index is essential for safeguarding your skin and overall health. Elevated UV levels, particularly from 10 AM to 2 PM, can lead to sunburn and increase the risk of long-term skin issues. With the local climate classified as Af, expect a significant amount of UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at an alarming 13. Understanding these UV risks empowers residents and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful sun safely while taking proactive measures for their skin health.
The UV Index offers a fascinating glimpse into how sunlight intensity changes throughout the day. Starting early at 07:00, it peaks at a modest 2, but by 09:00, it climbs dramatically to 8, signaling the need for sun protection. At 10:00, it reaches an impressive 11, and this intensity remains steady until 12:00, where it hits its maximum of 13. As the afternoon progresses, the UV Index gradually declines, dipping to 7 by 14:00 and further down to 4 by 15:00. The evening hours show a significant drop, with values falling to 2 at 16:00, 1 at 17:00, and finally hitting 0 by 18:00 and beyond. This data underscores the importance of being vigilant during midday hours when the sun's rays are most potent.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index values maintain an extreme exposure category, with the highest readings occurring from February to April where it peaks at 15. The high-risk months, particularly March and April, highlight the need for caution, as exposure can lead to sunburn in just 10 minutes. Visitors and residents alike should take proactive measures during these months by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. The UV Index decreases slightly in late autumn and winter, dropping to 11 in November and December, but vigilance is still recommended as the potential for skin damage remains significant throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Jaffna UVI | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
Moratuwa UVI | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Maharagama UVI | 11 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia UVI | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Colombo UVI | 12 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Hatton | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 |