UV Index in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka is crucial for anyone who values skin health and sun safety. With its high-altitude climate and tropical conditions, Nuwara Eliya experiences fluctuating UV levels that peak around midday, reaching a maximum index of 13—a measure that indicates extreme danger for unprotected skin. Awareness of UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. Whether you’re enjoying the scenic views or exploring the lush landscapes, being informed about the UV Index is essential for making safe choices under the sun, particularly during the hours when the risk is at its highest.

Hourly UV Index in Nuwara Eliya

The UV Index throughout the day reveals a striking pattern of intensity that peaks during the midday hours. It starts off at a gentle 2 at 07:00, gradually climbing to 4 by 08:00. The real surge occurs between 09:00 and 11:00, where it skyrockets to a high of 13, indicating a strong need for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to taper off, descending from 11 at 13:00 to 4 by 15:00, and finally dropping to a calm 0 by 19:00. To sum up, the day's UV exposure is intense yet fleeting, making the hours from 10:00 to 13:00 critical for sun safety!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 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	8	very high	15 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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Nuwara Eliya

The UV Index exhibits extreme levels throughout the year, with particularly high readings in the spring months of March (16) and April (15), and continues to remain above 13 from January through September. The high-risk months for UV exposure are February through September, where a mere 10 minutes of sun exposure can lead to skin damage. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months: wear protective clothing, utilize broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible, especially during the peak sun hours. Staying informed about daily UV levels can help ensure safe outdoor activities.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Nuwara Eliya. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Nuwara Eliya, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Nuwara Eliya UV Index with Other Sri Lanka Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Nuwara Eliya compares to other major locations across Sri Lanka. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Nuwara Eliya's solar exposure compared to other cities in Sri Lanka. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Nuwara Eliya	13	14	16	15	15	13	13	14	15	13	12	11