UV Index in Chilaw, Sri Lanka

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Chilaw, Sri Lanka, where the tropical climate offers abundant sunshine year-round. Being aware of UV levels is essential to prevent sunburn and protect your long-term skin health, as high UV exposure can lead to serious skin conditions. With a typical UV Index peaking at an alarming 13 during midday hours, Chilaw's sun poses significant risks, making it vital to check UV levels regularly and take appropriate sun safety precautions. Protect your skin while enjoying the beautiful beaches and vibrant culture of this coastal gem!

Hourly UV Index in Chilaw

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 Chilaw

Throughout the year, the UV Index in this region remains consistently high, peaking in the spring months of March and April at an UV Index of 14 and 15, respectively, both categorized as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. January to May showcases the highest UV exposure, making these months particularly high-risk for sunburn. Although the index slightly decreases during the summer months, it remains at 13, still categorized as extreme. September returns to a UV Index of 14, indicating that fall also poses significant risk. Visitors and residents should take precautions year-round, particularly from January to April, by using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Chilaw, Sri Lanka

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Chilaw. 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 Chilaw, 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 Chilaw UV Index with Other Sri Lanka Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Chilaw 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.

Chilaw'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
Chilaw	12	13	14	15	14	13	13	13	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