UV Index in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka. With its tropical Af climate, the region sees heightened UV exposure, especially during midday hours when UV levels can peak at an intense 13. Being aware of these levels is essential not only for preventing sunburns but also for maintaining long-term skin health. Knowing when the sun's rays are at their strongest—such as between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM—can significantly lower your risk of skin damage. Make the most of your time outdoors while protecting yourself with this informative guide to UV exposure in Kurunegala!

Hourly UV Index in Kurunegala

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.

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	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

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kurunegala

Throughout the year, UV Index levels remain consistently high, signaling extreme exposure categories from January to December, with a steady burn time of just 10 minutes. The peak period for UV exposure occurs in March and April, when the UV Index reaches a peak of 15, followed closely by February and September at 14. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to take necessary precautions during these high-risk months to protect their skin from harmful UV rays. This includes wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, particularly from 10 AM to 4 PM. Remember, even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate the clouds, so staying vigilant is essential year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kurunegala, Sri Lanka

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kurunegala 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.

Kurunegala'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
Kurunegala	12	14	15	15	14	13	12	13	14	13	12	11