UV Index in Kataragama, Sri Lanka

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Kataragama, Sri Lanka, being aware of the UV Index is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. Understanding the UV levels—especially during peak times—can help prevent painful sunburns and reduce the long-term risks of skin damage. With its tropical climate, Kataragama typically experiences high UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, when the UV Index reaches its peak at 14. By staying informed about UV values throughout the day, you can better plan your outdoor activities and safeguard your skin in this sun-drenched paradise.

Hourly UV Index in Kataragama

The UV Index paints a vivid picture of the day’s sun intensity, peaking at 14 around 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. As the morning unfolds, the index climbs steadily from a modest 2 at 07:00 AM to an impressive 12 by 10:00 AM, signaling a strong need for sun protection. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, dropping to 4 by 03:00 PM, and further tapering off to 0 by 07:00 PM. This data suggests that the sun is at its most potent during the late morning hours, making it crucial for outdoor adventurers to safeguard their skin during that peak time! Remember, staying sun-safe is key as the UV exposure evolves throughout the day.

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	5	moderate	30 min
09:00	9	very high	15 min
10:00	12	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	14	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	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 Kataragama

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.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kataragama, Sri Lanka

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

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kataragama 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.

Kataragama'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
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
Kataragama	13	14	15	15	14	12	13	14	14	13	11	11