UV Index in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Last updated: May 3, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Colombo, Sri Lanka is crucial for safeguarding your skin while enjoying the sun-drenched climate of this tropical paradise. With average UV levels peaking at 14 around noon, awareness of these levels is essential in preventing sunburn and maintaining long-term skin health. The warm, humid weather characteristic of Colombo presents unique challenges for sun exposure, making it vital to stay informed about daily UV fluctuations. By staying vigilant about UV threats, you can fully embrace all that Colombo has to offer while protecting your skin from harmful effects.

Hourly UV Index in Colombo

At 07:00, the UV Index starts at a modest 2, but as the sun rises higher, it escalates rapidly. By 08:00, the index doubles to 4, signaling a gradual increase in UV exposure. The peak arrives between 10:00 and 12:00, where it hits an impressive 14, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Temperatures soar as the index dips slightly to 12 by 13:00 and further declines to 9 by 14:00. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels plummet, dropping to 5 at 15:00 and falling to 2 by 16:00. The sun's strength fades further with readings of 1 at 17:00 and finally reaching 0 after 18:00. It's a stark reminder of the sun's intensity, urging everyone to prioritize sun safety during those peak hours.

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
10:0012extreme10 min
11:0014extreme10 min
12:0014extreme10 min
13:0012extreme10 min
14:009very high15 min
15:005moderate30 min
16:002low45 min
17:001low45 min
18:000low45 min
19:000low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Colombo

Throughout the year, the UV Index remains significantly high, indicating an extreme exposure risk for nearly all months. The highest UV Index readings occur from February to April, with a peak of 15 in April, underscoring this period as particularly critical for sun protection. Residents and visitors should be particularly cautious during these high-risk months, which also include March and September when the UV Index is consistently high at 14. Regardless of the month, burn times are alarmingly short, averaging just 10 minutes for peak exposure periods; December is the sole exception with a 15-minute burn time due to a slightly lower UV Index of 10. To stay safe, individuals should wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Colombo, Sri Lanka

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Colombo. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121414151413131314131110
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Colombo, 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 Colombo UV Index with Other Sri Lanka Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Colombo 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.
Colombo'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
Colombo121414151413131314131110