UV Index in Puttalam, Sri Lanka

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Puttalam, Sri Lanka, where the sun's rays can be especially intense. With UV levels reaching a peak of 13 around midday, awareness of these values is vital for effective sunburn prevention and maintaining long-term skin health. As a region characterized by a warm climate, Puttalam experiences significant UV exposure risks throughout the day, making it essential to stay informed and take appropriate precautions. Embracing knowledge of the UV Index not only helps protect your skin but also enhances your outdoor experience in this beautiful coastal area.

Hourly UV Index in Puttalam

The UV index throughout the day presents an intriguing journey of exposure, peaking at 13 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM—the sun's most intense moment. Starting from a modest 2 at 7:00 AM, the index swiftly escalates, hitting 4 by 8:00 AM and soaring to a substantial 11 at 10:00 AM. Just one hour later, it reaches its zenith, radiating at 13, before gradually descending as the afternoon wanes. By 3:00 PM, it's a more manageable 5, eventually dwindling down to 0 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe retreat from the sun's rays. This dynamic UV pattern serves as a reminder to stay vigilant under the sun, especially during its peak hours when protective measures are essential.

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	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	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 Puttalam

The UV Index reflects extreme levels of UV radiation from January to April, reaching a peak of 14, making these the highest-risk months. This period requires vigilant sun protection, as burn time is only 10 minutes. May and June maintain a similarly high UV Index of 13, while July and August drop slightly to 12 and 13, respectively. As summer transitions into fall, September sees another spike with a UV Index of 14, emphasizing the need for continued sun safety measures. The UV levels gradually decrease, with November showing an index of 11 and December at 10, categorized as very high, yet with an extended burn time of 15 minutes. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and sunscreen, during these months to minimize the risk of skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Puttalam, Sri Lanka

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Puttalam 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.

Puttalam'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
Puttalam	12	13	14	14	13	13	12	13	14	13	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