Last updated: March 19, 2025
December in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, is characterized by a warm tropical climate, with maximum temperatures reaching 30°C (85°F) and an average of around 23°C (74°F). As the month unfolds, temperatures dip to a minimum of 17°C (63°F), providing a comfortable range for both locals and visitors. However, December is predominantly wet, with total precipitation reaching a significant 402 mm (15.8 in) over 27 rainy days, resulting in high humidity levels averaging around 86%. This lush, tropical environment enhances the region’s vibrant natural beauty, making it a unique destination during this monsoon season.
In December, temperatures in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka begin to cool slightly as the year draws to a close. The minimum temperature hovers around 17°C (63°F), offering a comfortable respite from the warmer months. Days are pleasantly mild, with an average temperature of 23°C (74°F) and a peak reaching up to 30°C (85°F). This trend of relatively stable temperatures throughout the month mirrors the preceding months, characterized by a steady warmth, making December an inviting time to explore the lush landscapes and rich culture of Ratnapura. With temperatures remaining consistent, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and take in the stunning scenery without the intense heat often felt earlier in the year.
In December, Ratnapura experiences a substantial precipitation total of 402 mm (15.8 in), making it one of the wetter months of the year. This rainfall is spread over 27 days, reflecting the region's characteristic monsoonal patterns. Notably, December follows November's peak precipitation of 643 mm (25.3 in), which sets a rainy tone as the year winds down. While the December total is impressive, it dips significantly from the preceding month, underscoring a gradual decline in rainfall as the dry season approaches. Overall, December serves as a reminder of Ratnapura's lush, tropical climate, where the transitioning weather continues to play a crucial role in the region’s vibrant ecosystem.
In December, Ratnapura experiences a high humidity level of 86%, contributing to the region's tropical climate. The month showcases a notable trend where humidity remains consistently elevated, particularly in the latter part of the year. Following a slight dip in early months—69% in March and April—humidity climbs steadily, peaking dramatically in October and November at 89% and 88%, respectively. This pattern indicates a climate that becomes increasingly humid as the year progresses, culminating in December, where the moisture-laden air signifies the height of the wet season, making the environment lush and vibrant. The sustained high humidity levels not only define Ratnapura's character but also play a vital role in its rich biodiversity.
In December, Ratnapura experiences a UV Index of 11, indicating an extreme exposure category, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This marks a slight decrease from the peak months of March to May, which registered UV Index levels of 15, but the intensity remains significant. Throughout the year, Ratnapura's UV readings consistently stay in the extreme zone, with January starting at 12 and hovering around the 14-15 range during the hotter months. Despite the gradual dip in December, residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant about sun safety measures, as even a UV Index of 11 can lead to rapid skin damage. For more insights, you can check out the detailed Ratnapura UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In December, Ratnapura basks in a delightful 306 hours of sunshine, continuing the trend of ample daylight that graces the region throughout the year. Following the relatively lower sunshine hours of November, this month shines brightly, aligning closely with the totals seen in January and October. The sunniest months—July and August—set a high bar with over 330 hours, but December retains a healthy glow, ensuring that both residents and visitors can enjoy the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Sri Lanka's gem city. As we transition into the new year, the consistency of sunlight highlights Ratnapura’s charm, making it an inviting destination even in the cooler months.
In December, Ratnapura, Sri Lanka experiences an encouraging 40% chance of sunny weather, marking a notable increase compared to the preceding months. This uptick in sunshine reflects a shift from the more overcast conditions typical of the late monsoon season. While January offers only 15% sun exposure, December serves as a hopeful prelude to the sunnier months ahead, with February rising to 36%. Overall, as the year winds down, December stands out as a promising time for those seeking brighter skies, making it an appealing month for both residents and visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
In Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, December marks a return to shorter days, offering 11 hours of daylight—a continuation of the pattern observed in both January and February. As the year progresses from the longer days of 12 hours that dominate from March through October, the gradual inching back to 11 hours in late fall and early winter reflects the region's tropical climate and its minimal seasonal variation. This rhythm of light serves as a reminder of nature’s cycles, where the days steadily lengthen as the year transitions from the cooler months back into the vibrant warmth of spring and summer.
In Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, December brings a gentle respite, as average wind speeds dip to 1.0 m/s (2 mph), the lowest of the year. This decline marks a transition from the gradually increasing breezes seen from May to July, where gusts reach their peak at 2.5 m/s (6 mph), giving way to a more tranquil atmosphere. As the year closes, the winds soften, reflecting the region's shifting climate patterns. This calmness in December is a pleasant contrast, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the serene beauty of Ratnapura's lush landscapes without the interruption of strong winds.
The weather in Ratnapura changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Ratnapura and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, the weather is characterized by warmer temperatures and higher humidity, with daily averages around 23°C (74°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, averaging 402 mm (15.8 in) over 27 days, creating a vibrant but often wet environment. In contrast, January sees slightly cooler minimum temperatures at 15°C (59°F) while still maintaining an average of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation decreases considerably to 241 mm (9.5 in) over 18 days, and humidity drops to 80%, making January somewhat drier and less humid than December. For more details, you can check Ratnapura weather in January.
In December, temperatures in Ratnapura range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F), with an average of 23°C (74°F). The month is characterized by significant rainfall, accumulating to 402 mm (15.8 in) over 27 days, and a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, February experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (62°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 24°C (75°F). Precipitation decreases to 289 mm (11.4 in), occurring over 23 days, and humidity drops notably to 72%. This shift indicates a transition towards drier conditions as February approaches. For more insights on the weather in February, you can visit Ratnapura weather in February.
In comparing the weather between December and March, both months enjoy similar minimum temperatures, hovering around 17°C. However, March tends to be slightly warmer on average, with an average temperature of 24°C compared to December's 23°C. The maximum temperatures also rise a bit in March, reaching up to 31°C, whereas December peaks at 30°C.
Precipitation levels are quite high in both months, with December receiving 402 mm and March slightly lower at 384 mm. Interestingly, December experiences rainfall on 27 days, while March sees a similar pattern with rain on 29 days, but with overall less rainfall. Humidity levels in December remain high at 86%, while March enjoys a more comfortable 69%. For a detailed look at March weather in Ratnapura, you can visit Ratnapura weather in March.
In December, the weather features a warm range with minimum temperatures around 17°C (63°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (85°F). The month also sees significant rainfall, accumulating 402 mm (15.8 in) over 27 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 86%. In contrast, April presents slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures at 18°C (65°F) and highs peaking at 31°C (88°F). Although April has marginally more rainfall at 415 mm (16.3 in) over 28 days, the humidity drops to 69%, creating a more comfortable atmosphere. For a detailed look at weather during this month, you can visit Ratnapura weather in April.
When comparing the weather in December and May, both months feature similar maximum temperatures of 30°C (86°F), but their overall conditions differ. In December, the average temperature is slightly higher at 23°C (74°F), while May showcases a slightly elevated minimum temperature of 20°C (68°F). However, May experiences slightly less rainfall, with total precipitation at 431 mm (17.0 in) spread over 29 days, compared to December's 402 mm (15.8 in) over 27 days. Additionally, the humidity in December is higher at 86%, compared to 79% in May, making December feel more muggy. For more detailed weather insights, you can check Ratnapura weather in May.
In December, the weather tends to be quite warm, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 86% and significant rainfall, accumulating up to 402 mm (15.8 in) across 27 rainy days. In contrast, June is slightly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 20°C (68°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average temperature of 24°C (75°F). The precipitation in June is also lower, at 233 mm (9.2 in) over 28 days, while humidity remains relatively similar at 85%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, check out Ratnapura weather in June.
In December, the weather in Ratnapura is generally hotter, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F). This month also experiences a significant amount of rainfall, totaling 402 mm (15.8 in) over 27 days, along with high humidity levels at 86%.
In contrast, July offers slightly cooler temperatures, with an average ranging from a minimum of 20°C (68°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F). The precipitation in July is lower, at 219 mm (8.6 in) across 29 days, and humidity is also somewhat reduced at 81%. For more details, you can check Ratnapura weather in July.
December and August present similar average temperatures, both hovering around 23°C (74°F). However, December tends to be warmer overall, with a higher maximum temperature of 30°C (85°F) compared to August's maximum of 28°C (83°F). Precipitation levels differ significantly, as December experiences much more rainfall, totaling 402 mm (15.8 in) over 27 days, while August sees only 245 mm (9.6 in) during the same number of days. Humidity levels remain comparable, with December at 86% and August slightly lower at 85%. For more details about August weather in Ratnapura, visit Ratnapura weather in August.
In December, the weather is characterized by slightly warmer temperatures, with minimums dropping to 17°C (63°F) and maximums reaching 30°C (85°F), which offers a warm and humid climate. However, December also sees a significant increase in precipitation, with 402 mm (15.8 in) of rain over 27 days, contributing to a humidity level of 86%. In contrast, September experiences mildly higher minimum temperatures at 19°C (66°F) and slightly lower maximums of 29°C (84°F). Additionally, September has less rainfall, totaling 287 mm (11.3 in) across 26 days, resulting in a lower humidity of 81%. For a more detailed look at September weather, you can check Ratnapura weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, both months exhibit similar average temperatures of 23°C (74°F), but they differ in extreme temperatures and precipitation levels. December has a slightly lower minimum temperature of 17°C (63°F) compared to October's minimum of 19°C (66°F), while the maximum temperature in December reaches 30°C (85°F), slightly higher than October's peak of 28°C (84°F). When it comes to precipitation, October receives more rainfall at 475 mm (18.7 in) over 29 days, whereas December experiences 402 mm (15.8 in) across 27 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in October at 89% compared to 86% in December. For more detailed insights into October weather, you can check Ratnapura weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December to November, both months exhibit warm temperatures, with December experiencing a slight decrease in the minimum temperature, dropping from 18°C (65°F) in November to 17°C (63°F). The average temperature remains stable at 23°C (74°F) for both months, while the maximum temperature in December rises to 30°C (85°F), slightly above November's peak of 29°C (84°F). However, December sees significantly less precipitation, measuring 402 mm (15.8 in) over 27 days compared to November's 643 mm (25.3 in) over 26 days. Humidity levels are also slightly lower in December at 86%, compared to November's 88%. For more details, you can check out Ratnapura weather in November.
December in Ratnapura brings a notable shift in weather, characterized by higher humidity and an increased frequency of rainfall compared to other months. With temperatures averaging around a comfortable 23°C (74°F), the days are warm, yet the consistent precipitation—often spanning nearly the entire month—creates a lush, vibrant landscape. This blend of warmth and moisture not only distinguishes December but also sets the stage for the captivating beauty of Ratnapura's natural surroundings. For a deeper dive into how this month stacks up against the rest of the year, explore the details at Ratnapura Climate.