Last updated: July 2, 2025
Awareness of the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Kilinochchi, Sri Lanka, where the sun's intensity can pose significant health risks. Understanding UV levels helps in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health, making it essential for outdoor activities, particularly during the peak UV hours. Kilinochchi's tropical climate often sees UV Index levels soaring to 13 around midday, emphasizing the importance of sun protection measures to safeguard against harmful exposure. Stay informed and enjoy the sun safely!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, peaking at 13 around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM—a clear indication that it's crucial to protect your skin during those hours. Early morning starts with a more manageable UV Index of 2 at 07:00, gradually climbing to a moderate 4 by 08:00. By 09:00, it escalates to 7, signaling that sun safety measures should become a priority. The intensity is undeniable, reaching its maximum at 10:00 AM with a blistering 10, before slightly tapering off in the afternoon. By 15:00, the UV exposure decreases to 5, and by 17:00, it falls to 1, signaling the end of the day's high UV risk. Finally, as the sun sets, the UV Index drops to 0 by 19:00, providing a welcome reprieve from the sun’s harsh rays. Stay vigilant and protect your skin during the peak hours!
| 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 | 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 |
The UV Index in this region demonstrates seasonal variations that peak during the early months of the year, remaining consistently in the extreme exposure category (11-15) from January through October. Specifically, March and April show the highest UV levels, reaching 14 and 15 respectively. High-risk months include March, April, and September, where UV exposure is at its peak, with a burn time of just 10 minutes for most of the year. Visitors and residents should take precautionary measures during these months, such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with high SPF, and seeking shade, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Even as we transition into the cooler months, October to December exhibit a notable drop in UV levels, although November still maintains a high level of caution with a UV index of 11. It’s essential to remain vigilant year-round, as UV exposure can still pose a risk, particularly in sunny conditions.
UV Risk Categories
| 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 |
| Kilinochchi | 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 |