Climate and monthly weather forecastGalle, Sri Lanka

The climate of Galle

Galle, located in Sri Lanka, experiences an Af climate under the Köppen climate classification - also known as a tropical rainforest climate. The region stands out due to its high humidity levels, significant rainfall throughout the year, and consistently warm temperatures.

Temperature in Galle remains relatively steady throughout the year, exhibiting minor variations between months. The highest average temperature is noted in March and April at 30.3°C (86.5°F), with a decrease to 28.3°C (82.9°F) observed during August and September. At night, the lowest mean temperatures range between 24°C (75.2°F) in January, with a peak of 26.7°C (80.1°F) in May.

Relative humidity varies slightly from month to month, resting at 78% in January and April, and reaching a peak of 82% between June and September. The city experiences the most rainfall in May, at a volume of 302mm (11.89"), while the driest month, January, sees 38mm (1.5") falling.

Galle's weather pattern shows that the city receives appreciable daylight hours throughout the year, with the minimum being 11.8 hrs in January and December and a slightly longer duration of 12.5 hrs in June. Simultaneously, the area exhibits high cloud coverage, ranging from 38% in January and December to 51% in June.

The city is windy throughout the year, with wind speeds climbing from January’s 7.8 KPH to a peak of 20.2 KPH in June.

The best time to visit Galle

As Galle has a tropical rainforest climate, visitors can expect warm temperatures throughout the year. However, the period from January to March presents the most favorable time to travel to the region. These months mark lower rainfall levels (from 38mm (1.5") in January to 68mm (2.68") in March), paired with consistent temperatures (from 29.2°C (84.6°F) to 30.3°C (86.5°F)), and higher daylight hours that vary from 11.8 to 12.1.

The worst time to visit Galle

Traveling to Galle in May might not be favorable for tourists due to the high rainfall of 302mm (11.89") and increased cloud coverage, standing at 50%. Despite a pleasant average temperature of 29.5°C (85.1°F) and a relatively high number of daylight hours (12.4hrs), the likelihood of heavy rainfall might disrupt outdoor activities.

Spring weather in Galle

Galle does not experience a traditional spring due to its tropical rainforest climate. However, for the purpose of providing a three-month climatological breakdown, March to May can be treated as a local reference to spring months. This period sees climbing temperatures, from 30.3°C (86.5°F) in March to 29.5°C (85.1°F) in May. Simultaneously, rainfall dramatically increases from 68mm (2.68") in March to 302mm (11.89") in May. 

Summer weather in Galle

Taking into account the city's tropical climate, the typical summer months - June through August - bring an increase in rainfall (from 250mm (9.84") to 235mm (9.25")) and wind speed (from 20.2 KPH to 19.5 KPH). The temperatures, however, decrease slightly from 28.8°C (83.8°F) to 28.3°C (82.9°F). Relative humidity increases from 82% in June to 81% in August.

Autumn weather in Galle

September to November, referred to as autumn, brings an increased rainfall pattern from 222mm (8.74") to 179mm (7.05"). Meanwhile, temperatures rise from 28.3°C (82.9°F) in September to 29.2°C (84.6°F) in November. Wind speeds decrease during these months from 17.3 KPH to 9.8 KPH.

Winter weather in Galle

Galle does not have a traditional winter weather due to its tropical climate, but during the typical winter months from December to February, weather factors vary minimally. Average temperatures range from 28.9°C (84°F) to 29.7°C (85.5°F), rainfall levels fluctuate between 114mm (4.49") to 50mm (1.97"), with wind speeds varying from 9.4KPH to 8 KPH. Remarkably, these months experience lower cloud coverage, peaking at 38% in December and staying the same in January.

Weather in January

January in Galle, Sri Lanka brings a relatively mild introduction to the year. Often, the city experiences a more agreeable climate, balancing a slightly cooler temperature compared to the other months. Also, sea temperatures are enjoyable, attracting a substantial influx of tourists. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February brings a slight spike in temperature and rainfall to Galle in comparison to January. Even though the difference is slight, it does not go unchecked by the residents. During this month, a slight shift in the daily weather patterns becomes noticeable. Weather in February »

Weather in March

Moving on to March, temperatures can reach an average high of 30.3°C (86.5°F). It marks the start of a more tropical climate, with an uptick in rainfall, specifically, up to 68mm (2.68"). It is not uncommon to experience increased humidity levels during this period. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April sees more rain showers in Galle than in the preceding months. The city is now fully enveloped in its tropical character, defined by frequent showers and continuous humidity. Despite torrential downpours, locals and tourists alike find the city's climate bearable, thanks to the lingering sea breezes, which lessen the perceived temperature. Weather in April »

Weather in May

In May there is a significant increase in rainfall within the city of Galle. Residents transition into a weather period characterized by heavier rains, reaching up to 302mm (11.89"). Concurrently, the days in May are rather gloomy, with sunshine being less prevalent than in the past months. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June displays somewhat stabilized weather conditions in Galle. The overall weather pattern evens out from the extremes of the previous months. In comparison to May, there is a reduction in rainfall, making June a relatively drier month. Weather in June »

Weather in July

The consistency in weather patterns extends into July. With an average high of 28.7°C (83.7°F), the summer heat remains stable in Galle. The showers exhibit a sporadic dispersal throughout the day, making it an opportune time to explore the city. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Come August, the city of Galle experiences sustained cooler winds with a speed of 19.5km/h (12.1mph). The months' humidity is significantly high, as is typical of tropical climates, especially in this monsoon period. However, August offers an enjoyable equilibrium of temperate and cooling spells, thanks to the wind factor. Weather in August »

Weather in September

Attributed to the tropical nature of the region, September in Galle introduces increased rainfall, totaling 222mm (8.74") for the month. Yet, the weather fluctuates less dramatically in terms of temperature and wind speed compared to other months. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October views a brief relief from the increased rainfall, with records showing a decrease to 194mm (7.64"). There remains a moderately high level of rainfall, albeit less than the previous month. The dashes of rain can affect visibility in Galle, but the town trudges on, unfettered. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November is a period of a somewhat predictable weather pattern in Galle. The mixture of lots of legible daylight and steady winds creates a pleasant atmospheric environment. While rainfall persists, it slightly drops to 179mm (7.05"), coupled with a similarly decreasing sea temperature, thus continuing the trend from the previous month. Weather in November »

Weather in December

By December, the weather in Galle begins to dry out, marking the transition from the rainy season. Consequently, there is an immediate shift in weather patterns with a noticeable decrease in rainfall - to 114mm (4.49"). Despite this smaller amount of rain, atmospheric pressure remains relatively consistent. Weather in December »