Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Negombo, Sri Lanka, is crucial for safeguarding your skin against harmful ultraviolet rays and preventing sunburn. As an island nation with a tropical climate, Negombo experiences significant UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index peaks at a striking 14—indicating extreme risk. Awareness of these UV levels not only promotes better skin health but also empowers residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions when enjoying the beautiful sun-soaked beaches. By monitoring the UV Index, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while embracing the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that Negombo has to offer.
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.
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
08:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
09:00 | 8 | 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 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
15:00 | 5 | 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 |
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.
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 |
Negombo | 12 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |
Colombo UVI | 12 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 |