Last updated: March 19, 2025
October in Colombo, Sri Lanka, offers a tropical experience characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. With maximums reaching 30°C (86°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), the weather is typically warm, but evenings cool down with a minimum of 24°C (76°F). Humidity levels hover around a high 81%, creating a humid atmosphere. Rainfall is quite pronounced, accumulating to 347 mm (13.6 in) over 29 days, making it one of the wetter months of the year. Those visiting during this time can expect lush landscapes and vibrant flora, influenced by the frequent precipitation.
In October, Colombo experiences a delightful transition in temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and a comfortable average of 27°C (81°F). As the month progresses, daytime highs reach a pleasant 30°C (86°F), marking a slight dip compared to the sweltering highs of previous summer months. This transitional period hints at the upcoming northeast monsoon, providing a welcome blend of warmth and refreshing breezes. The overall trend shows a gradual cooling from the peak temperatures of mid-year, making October an ideal time to explore the vibrant city and its stunning surroundings without the oppressive heat of summer.
In October, Colombo, Sri Lanka experiences a significant surge in precipitation, with an impressive 347 mm (13.6 in) of rain falling over 29 days. This marks the peak of the wet season, following a gradual increase from September's 234 mm (9.2 in) and a series of wetter months preceding it, such as May and June. The trend highlights October as not only the rainiest month but also one in which nearly the entire month is characterized by frequent rainfall, offering a stark contrast to the relatively dry start of the year. The persistent downpours can lead to lush greenery throughout the city, creating a vibrant, albeit damp, urban landscape as the monsoon season reaches its climax.
In Colombo, Sri Lanka, October experiences a humidity level of 81%, marking a slight decline from the elevated humidity of the preceding months. Following a comfortable yet moist September at 82%, October maintains a pattern of high humidity typical of the tropical climate, although it is notably lower than the peak of 83% seen in August. As the year progresses, humidity in Colombo generally hovers around the 80% mark from June through November, indicating a trend of increased moisture as the monsoon season peaks. This enduring humidity creates a lush environment but can also contribute to the feeling of heaviness in the air, reminding visitors of the region's vibrant, tropical allure.
In October, the UV Index in Colombo, Sri Lanka, remains at a high level of 13, categorized as extreme, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend follows a consistent pattern observed throughout the year, where the UV Index frequently peaks at levels of 12 to 15 during the first half of the year before tapering slightly in the latter months. Notably, the UV Index reaches its highest in April at 15, while October aligns with several other months exhibiting similar UV levels, reinforcing the importance of sun protection strategies for both locals and visitors. For more detailed information, explore the Colombo UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As the calendar flips to October, Colombo, Sri Lanka, continues to bask in a generous 299 hours of sunshine, though this marks a slight dip from the sun-soaked heights of earlier months like March with its impressive 336 hours. The trend of diminishing daylight appears consistent as the year progresses, with monthly sunshine peaking in late winter to early spring and gradually easing into the latter part of the year. November follows closely with 279 hours, indicating a gradual shift towards shorter days as the tropical climate begins to embrace the cooler, rainier season. Nevertheless, October still offers ample sunshine, inviting both locals and travelers to enjoy the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of this coastal paradise.
In October, Colombo experiences a modest 15% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. This marks a notable dip from the slightly more favorable odds in previous months, particularly February, which boasts a 53% chance of sunshine. The trend of diminishing sunny days continues from August through October, where the chances hover around the lower end of the spectrum. As the city transitions into the latter half of the year, cloudy skies and rain become increasingly likely, reinforcing the idea that October is characterized by reduced sunlight compared to the earlier months. Travelers should plan accordingly, as while sunny days are possible, they are certainly not guaranteed.
In October, Colombo, Sri Lanka experiences a shift in daylight duration, offering about 11 hours of sunshine each day. This slight decrease from the preceding months reflects a transition towards the end of the year, following a period of consistent 12 hours of daylight from March through September. While October marks a return to shorter days, it maintains the allure of tropical splendour, as the city bids farewell to lingering summer warmth and begins to welcome the cooler, more refreshing breezes of the upcoming months. As day length stabilizes into a rhythm of 11 hours that will continue into November and December, it's a time when both locals and visitors can enjoy the stunning contrasts of day and night in this vibrant coastal hub.
As October arrives in Colombo, Sri Lanka, the city's breezes gently shift, bringing an average wind speed of 3.9 m/s (9 mph). Following the brisk winds of the mid-year months, which peak at 5.6 m/s (13 mph) in July and linger around 5.3 m/s (12 mph) in August, October marks a noticeable decline in wind intensity. This subtle softening of the air complements the transition from the humid peaks of the rainy season, creating a refreshing atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike. The winds remain consistent as they dip slightly into November, reinforcing the idea that October serves as a pleasant bridge to the cooler, calmer months ahead.
The weather in Colombo changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of October's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Colombo and find detailed weather information for every month.
In October, the weather is characterized by warm temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), while experiencing significant rainfall of 347 mm (13.6 in) over 29 days, resulting in high humidity levels of 81%. In contrast, January sees slightly cooler minimum temperatures at 22°C (72°F) and a warmer maximum of 33°C (92°F). Rainfall is considerably lower in January, with only 54 mm (2.1 in) over 7 days, and humidity levels drop slightly to 77%. Overall, January offers a drier and less humid climate compared to the wet, humid conditions of October. For more detailed information, visit Colombo weather in January.
October and February present quite contrasting weather conditions. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 27°C (81°F). This month sees significant rainfall, with 347 mm (13.6 in) of precipitation spread over 29 days, contributing to high humidity levels of 81%. In comparison, February offers slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 22°C (73°F), an average of 28°C (82°F), and a peak of 34°C (94°F). There is considerably less rainfall in February, with only 54 mm (2.1 in) over 9 days and lower humidity at 73%. For more details, you can check Colombo weather in February.
When comparing the weather in October and March, both months feature warm temperatures, with October having a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), while March shows a slightly higher average of 28°C (83°F) and a maximum that reaches 33°C (92°F). October is characterized by significantly higher precipitation, with 347 mm (13.6 in) over 29 days, compared to March’s 118 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days. Additionally, October experiences higher humidity at 81%, whereas March has a more comfortable humidity level of 74%. For a detailed overview of the weather in March, you can check out Colombo weather in March.
In October, the weather is characterized by slightly cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 347 mm (13.6 in) over 29 days, and a higher humidity level of 81%. In contrast, April brings warmer temperatures, with an average minimum of 25°C (77°F) and a peak reaching 33°C (91°F). Rainfall is markedly lower at 125 mm (4.9 in) across 25 days, and the humidity drops to 74%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Colombo weather in April.
In comparing the weather of October and May, both months experience high temperatures but with slight variations. October has a minimum temperature of 24°C (76°F) and averages 27°C (81°F), while May slightly edges higher with a minimum of 25°C (78°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F). The maximum temperature in May can reach up to 32°C (90°F), making it the hotter month overall. Precipitation levels are notable in both months, with October receiving 347 mm (13.6 in) of rainfall, compared to May's 295 mm (11.6 in). Interestingly, both months have 29 days of precipitation, although October has higher humidity at 81%, compared to May's 76%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Colombo weather in May.
In comparing the weather of October and June, we find that both months have similar temperature ranges, with October experiencing slightly lower temperatures (min 24°C, avg 27°C, max 30°C) than June (min 25°C, avg 28°C, max 31°C). However, October is notably wetter, receiving significantly more precipitation at 347 mm compared to June's 257 mm, with rainfall occurring on 29 days in October versus 28 days in June. Humidity levels remain quite close, with October at 81% and June at 82%. For more detailed insights, you can check Colombo weather in June.
October and July exhibit similar high temperatures, with average highs peaking at around 30°C (86°F). However, October tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures of 27°C (81°F) compared to July's 28°C (82°F). The two months also share comparable minimum temperatures, averaging 24°C (76°F) in October and 25°C (77°F) in July. Notably, October experiences significantly higher precipitation, reaching 347 mm (13.6 in) over 29 days, while July sees much less rain, with only 168 mm (6.6 in) over 26 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with October at 81% and July at 82%. For more details, check Colombo weather in July.
When comparing the weather in October and August, we see a notable increase in precipitation and humidity during October. While the temperature ranges are quite similar—averaging 27°C (81°F) in both months—October experiences significantly more rainfall, with 347 mm (13.6 in) over 29 days compared to August's 189 mm (7.4 in) over 27 days. Humidity levels are also slightly lower in October at 81% compared to 83% in August. For a more detailed look at August weather conditions, check out Colombo weather in August.
In comparing the weather of October and September, we can observe some notable differences. Both months feature similar average temperatures, with daily highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F). However, October tends to be slightly warmer at night with a minimum temperature of 24°C (76°F), compared to September's 25°C (77°F).
A significant difference lies in precipitation, as October experiences a substantial increase with 347 mm (13.6 in) over 29 days, in contrast to September's 234 mm (9.2 in) across 26 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with October averaging 81% and September at 82%. For more insights on September weather patterns, visit Colombo weather in September.
In October, the weather remains warm with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), while November continues this trend with a slightly higher maximum of 31°C (88°F). Both months share an average temperature of 27°C (81°F), indicating consistent warmth. However, October is notably wetter, with 347 mm (13.6 in) of precipitation over 29 days, compared to November's 294 mm (11.6 in) over 26 days. Humidity levels are similar, sitting at 81% in October and slightly lower at 80% in November. For more insights, check out Colombo weather in November.
In October, the weather is generally warm with a minimum temperature of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with a total of 347 mm (13.6 in) over 29 days, resulting in high humidity levels of 81%. In contrast, December offers slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F), while the average remains the same at 27°C (81°F). Precipitation decreases to 179 mm (7.1 in) over just 17 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, you can visit Colombo weather in December.
October in Colombo is marked by a unique blend of warm temperatures and high humidity, making it distinct from the drier months that precede it. With significant rainfall, averaging nearly the entire month, this period transitions the city into a lush, vibrant landscape. Unlike the relatively lower humidity and sporadic showers of previous months, October presents a more tropical climate that can feel quite muggy at times. The constant moisture at 81% often results in overcast skies, but it's crucial to remember that this weather contributes to the region's lush greenery. For a deeper dive into the yearly weather patterns, you can explore Colombo Climate.