Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Mirissa, Sri Lanka, where the tropical climate can lead to significant sun exposure. With UV levels often peaking at 13 during midday, awareness of these levels can play a vital role in preventing sunburn and protecting skin health. As you bask in the beauty of Mirissa’s stunning beaches, remember that the intense sunlight can pose risks if not managed properly. By monitoring the UV Index, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin safe from harmful effects.
The UV Index data throughout the day reveals a dynamic shift in sunlight intensity. Starting off at 07:00 with a low index of 2, the sun's rays gain strength, peaking at 10:00 with an intense 10. By 11:00 and 12:00, the UV Index reaches its maximum of 13, indicating a high risk for unprotected skin. As the afternoon progresses, the levels begin to decline, dropping to 8 by 14:00 and further to 4 by 15:00. As the sun starts to set, the index falls to 2 at 16:00, then swiftly diminishes to 1 at 17:00, finally returning to 0 by 18:00 and 19:00. This data underscores the importance of sun safety, especially during midday when the risk is greatest.
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 | 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 |
The UV Index shows that the region experiences extreme sun exposure year-round, with consistently high values ranging from 11 to 15. The high-risk months for sun exposure are from January to April, where the UV Index peaks at 15 in both March and April, highlighting a critical period for skin protection. Visitors and residents should take precautions by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during these months. Even in the latter months of the year, such as October and November, the UV Index remains elevated, indicating that sun safety is a year-round concern. Remember, burn times are roughly 10 minutes across all months, emphasizing the importance of vigilance against UV damage at all times.
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 |
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 |
Mirissa city | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 11 |