January weather forecast
Colombo, Sri Lanka

January in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a tropical winter month, with an average temperature fluctuating between 23.1°C (73.6°F) and 30.8°C (87.4°F).

Temperature

In Colombo, the average high-temperature in January is practically the same as in December - a hot 30.8°C (87.4°F). In Colombo, the average low-temperature is 23.1°C (73.6°F).

Heat index

The average heat index in January is estimated at a very hot 38°C (100.4°F). Take extra precautions, as heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible. Sustained activity may result in heatstroke.
Note that heat index values are valued for light wind and location in the shade. Exposure to direct sunshine can increase heat index values by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature', 'real feel', 'feels like', or 'felt air temperature', is a calculated temperature value of how hot it feels when the moisture in the air is factored in. This effect is individual, with diverse people perceiving weather differently for numerous reasons (clothing, metabolic differences, differences in body mass, height, and shape), and activity. Be aware that direct exposure to sunlight increases heat impact and may raise the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly important for children. Children are often less aware of the need to rest and re-hydrate. Thirst is a late sign of dehydration - it is vital to remain hydrated, particularly during prolonged physical activities.
To prevent overheating and help regulate its internal temperature, the human body sweat and rely on the evaporation to cool down. High relative humidity reduces the evaporation rate, resulting in a lower heat removal rate from the body, causing the perception of being overheated. If the body can not disperse the excessive heat and body temperature reaches conditions of hyperthermia, above 37.5°C (99.5°F) to 38.3°C (100.9°F), thermal conditions are potentially life-threatening.

Humidity

January and February, with an average relative humidity of 74%, are the least humid months in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Rainfall

January is the month with the least rainfall in Colombo. Rain falls for 11.6 days and accumulates 40mm (1.57") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

In Colombo, Sri Lanka, in January, the average water temperature is 27.7°C (81.9°F).
Note: Water temperature between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) is regarded as very warm and enjoyable by all. With these temperatures, water activities are pleasurable, without feeling uncomfortable for prolonged periods.

Daylight

In Colombo, the average length of the day in January is 11h and 46min.
On the first day of January, sunrise is at 06:21 and sunset at 18:05. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:29 and sunset at 18:18 +0530.

Sunshine

January has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 9.1h of sunshine.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index in Colombo are January through April, July, September, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index estimate of 6 to 7 represents a high health vulnerability from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: The daily maximum UV index of 7 in January interpret into the following advice:
Take precautions and utilize sun safety practices. Protection against skin and eye damage is required. Seek shade and minimize exposure to direct Sun in a period between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV radiation is most intense; keep in mind that shade structures like parasols or canopies do not provide perfect sun protection. On bright days sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays should be worn. A hat with a wide brim is extremely helpful, as it can prevent roughly 50% of UV radiation from reaching the eyes. Caution! The reflection of sand and water significantly increases the intensity of the Sun's UV radiation.