UV Index in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Colombo, Sri Lanka, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin and promoting overall health. With a tropical climate that often yields intense sunlight, knowing the UV levels can help you take proactive measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage. The UV Index varies throughout the day, peaking at a striking 13 around noon, which signifies a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Whether you're enjoying the vibrant beaches or navigating the bustling city, staying informed about the UV risks is essential for enjoying the sun safely.

Hourly UV Index in Colombo

During the early hours of the day, the UV Index begins at a gentle 2 at 7:00 AM, gradually climbing to 4 by 8:00 AM. As the sun reaches its zenith, the intensity peaks dramatically, soaring to a striking 13 between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM—a clear indication to protect your skin. The index then starts to decline after 1:00 PM, dropping to 7 at 2:00 PM and further dwindling to a 4 by 3:00 PM. As the day winds down, the UV exposure decreases significantly, falling to 1 by 5:00 PM and finally settling at 0 after 6:00 PM, inviting a sense of relief from the sun's rays. Make sure to check the UV Index for safe sun practices 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	4	moderate	30 min
09:00	7	high	25 min
10:00	11	extreme	10 min
11:00	13	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	7	high	25 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 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.

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.
	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	12	14	14	15	14	13	13	13	14	13	11	10