UV Index in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents of Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, where the tropical climate can expose you to harmful ultraviolet rays. With UV levels peaking at a staggering 13 during midday hours, awareness is essential for sunburn prevention and maintaining overall skin health. By keeping track of the UV Index, you can enjoy the vibrant outdoor activities Ratnapura has to offer while protecting yourself from the associated risks of high UV exposure, especially during the sunniest hours of the day. Stay informed and safeguard your skin!

Hourly UV Index in Ratnapura

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.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:002low45 min
08:004moderate30 min
09:008very high15 min
10:0011extreme10 min
11:0013extreme10 min
12:0013extreme10 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:007high25 min
15:004moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Ratnapura

The UV Index exhibits consistently extreme levels throughout the year, with particularly high numbers from February to May, peaking in March and April at 15. Visitors and residents should be especially vigilant during these high-risk months, as the burn time is just 10 minutes regardless of the month. Despite a slight decline in the UV Index during the summer and fall, the exposure remains notably high, ranging from 12 to 14. It is essential for everyone to take precautionary measures year-round, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses, to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ratnapura, Sri Lanka

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Ratnapura. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121415151513131414131211
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Ratnapura, 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 Ratnapura UV Index with Other Sri Lanka Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Ratnapura 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.
Ratnapura's solar exposure compared to other cities in Sri Lanka. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Jaffna UVI111314151312131314121110
Moratuwa UVI111314151412131414131110
Maharagama UVI111314151412131414131110
Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia UVI121314151412131414131110
Colombo UVI121414151413131314131110
Ratnapura121415151513131414131211