UV Index in Puttalam, Sri Lanka

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Puttalam, Sri Lanka is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. With the tropical climate of Puttalam bringing consistent sun exposure, awareness of UV levels can significantly aid in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage. During peak hours, especially between 10 AM and 1 PM, the UV Index can soar to a high of 13, highlighting the urgent need for sun safety measures. By staying informed about local UV levels, you can enjoy the sun while safeguarding your skin against harmful rays.

Hourly UV Index in Puttalam

The UV Index displays a stark increase throughout the morning, starting with a manageable 2 at 07:00, climbing to a moderate 4 by 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, the index peaks at 13 between 12:00 and 13:00, indicating strong UV radiation and the need for protection. Following this midday intensity, the numbers begin to decline, dipping to 8 at 14:00, and later dropping to a safe 2 by 16:00. By evening, UV exposure diminishes to 0 by 19:00, signaling an end to the day’s sunniest moments. Be mindful of this hourly fluctuation, especially during peak hours, to protect your skin!

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	10	very high	15 min
11:00	12	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 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