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Contents
- The climate of Jaffna
- The best time to visit Jaffna
- The worst time to visit Jaffna
- Spring weather in Jaffna
- Summer weather in Jaffna
- Autumn weather in Jaffna
- Winter weather in Jaffna
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Jaffna
Situated in the northern region of Sri Lanka, Jaffna experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, also known as savannah climate. This climate type is determined by the Köppen climate classification system. Jaffna, nestled on the Jaffna Peninsula, basks under the sun with an average daylight ranging from 11.6 hours to 12.7 hours throughout the year.
Weather-wise, Jaffna displays consistent temperature patterns. The highest average temperature is observed in the fourth and fifth month, hitting 30.4°C (86.7°F) and 30.3°C (86.5°F) respectively, whereas the lowest average dips to 25.5°C (77.9°F) in the inaugural month.
Humidity lies relatively stable throughout the year, with values that fall between the range of 75% to 79%. On the precipitation front, Jaffna experiences a yearly fluctuation with a notable increase in the last quarter. The maximum rainfall of 191mm (7.52") is witnessed in the tenth month and continues to remain elevated with 183mm (7.2") and 140mm (5.51") in the succeeding two months.
Winds speed is another climatic element to consider with the maximum wind gusts reaching up to 48.2km/h (30mph) in the fifth month, and the lowest slowing down to 20.3km/h (12.6mph) in the second month. On the visibility front, Jaffna remains consistent throughout the year with a steady 10km (6.2mi).
Weather-wise, Jaffna displays consistent temperature patterns. The highest average temperature is observed in the fourth and fifth month, hitting 30.4°C (86.7°F) and 30.3°C (86.5°F) respectively, whereas the lowest average dips to 25.5°C (77.9°F) in the inaugural month.
Humidity lies relatively stable throughout the year, with values that fall between the range of 75% to 79%. On the precipitation front, Jaffna experiences a yearly fluctuation with a notable increase in the last quarter. The maximum rainfall of 191mm (7.52") is witnessed in the tenth month and continues to remain elevated with 183mm (7.2") and 140mm (5.51") in the succeeding two months.
Winds speed is another climatic element to consider with the maximum wind gusts reaching up to 48.2km/h (30mph) in the fifth month, and the lowest slowing down to 20.3km/h (12.6mph) in the second month. On the visibility front, Jaffna remains consistent throughout the year with a steady 10km (6.2mi).
The best time to visit Jaffna
With a thorough understanding of the climate, pinpointing the best time to visit Jaffna comes down to the visitors' preference. However, based on the combination of pleasant temperatures and lower rainfall, the period from the second to fourth month appears ideal when the rainfall is between 13mm (0.51") and 20mm (0.79") and temperatures encompass the moderate range of 27.4°C (81.3°F) to 30.4°C (86.7°F).
The worst time to visit Jaffna
Conversely, the last quarter of the year may not be the most favorable time to explore Jaffna. The rainfall rises over 100mm (3.94") from 58mm (2.28") in the ninth to 191mm (7.52") in the tenth month and maintains above 100mm (3.94") for the rest of the year. Around this time, the city also witnesses fewer sunshine days, with the lowest value of 5.9 hours.
Spring weather in Jaffna
Aligning with the tropical climate, the temperature in Jaffna sees a gradual increase from 27.4°C (81.3°F) in the second month to 29.3°C (84.7°F) in the third. Accompanied by a decline in rainfall from 19mm (0.75") to 13mm (0.51") during these months, the city becomes a warm haven for tourists during this spring period. However, the wind gust does drop from 28.6km/h (17.8mph) to a calmer 23.5km/h (14.6mph).
Summer weather in Jaffna
Despite being a tropical city, the fourth through the sixth month brings forth the summer with an increase in temperature from 30.4°C (86.7°F) to 29.7°C (85.5°F). The rainfall flutters around 20mm (0.79") to 18mm (0.71"), and the steady rise in wind speed, from 16.7km/h (10.4mph) to 33.8km/h (21mph), brings a refreshing break from the heat.
Autumn weather in Jaffna
In autumn, between the seventh and ninth months, the temperatures remain relatively stable ranging from 29°C (84.2°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F). The rainfall begins to pick up, particularly in the ninth month with a significant increase to 58mm (2.28") from 30mm (1.18") in the seventh month. Though the winds at the upper range, the visibility remains at a constant 10km (6.2mi).
Winter weather in Jaffna
Winter in Jaffna is marked by the highest rainfall of the year. From the tenth to the twelfth month, the rainfall is well above 100mm (3.94"), with the peak being 191mm (7.52") in the tenth month. The temperatures register a slight decline from 29.2°C (84.6°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F). This period also sees the shortest day length of the year, dropping to 11.6 hours. Though wind speeds and gusts drop to 23.1km/h (14.4mph) and 33.3km/h (20.7mph) respectively, it is still a noticeably windy period.
Weather in January
The start of the year sees a moderate amount of rainfall in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Driven by steady winds at an average speed of 22.9km/h (14.2mph), the weather remains cool. High relative humidity of 76%. A slight dip in temperatures can be appreciated after dark. Weather in January »
Weather in February
A bright February brings a decrease in cloud cover and rainfall, signifying the onset of the dry spell in Jaffna. Notably, the wind speed in February drops to 20.3km/h (12.6mph) from the previous month, marking a subtle shift in climatic patterns. Weather in February »
Weather in March
As March unfolds, Jaffna receives just 13mm (0.51") of rainfall over 5.8 days. The month also embraces remarkably long daylight hours, setting a pleasant backdrop for outdoor activities. Accompanied by steady and balmy sea temperatures, March represents an appealing time for water-based pursuits. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Heading into April, Jaffna, Sri Lanka experiences high daily temperatures, reaching up to 30.4°C (86.7°F). Yet, with an increase in humidity to 77%, the overall feeling could be warm. Sea temperatures also begin to climb at this time, calling to beach-goers. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May offers strikingly warm sea temperature conditions, beckoning swimmers to its shores. Climatic conditions manifest with an average rainfall of 26mm (1.02"), slightly higher than in preceding months. Predominant weather characteristics in May are often characterized by high humidity, moderately strong winds, and extended daylight. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June observes the wind speed reaching its peak for the year, averaging 33.8km/h (21mph). Amid this increase, the weather persists to be sultry as humidity levels remain high. June’s climate pattern embodies sunny days and the occasional rain shower. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July retains similar weather characteristics as its predecessor month with only minor climatic changes. Rainfall volume intensifies with precipitation falling over 10.3 days on average. The aftermath is a lowering in both temperature and wind speed. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Heading into the second half of the year, August in Jaffna observes a substantial rise in precipitation, noted at 38mm (1.5"). Coinciding with the increase in rainfall, there’s a slight dip in wind speed to a more gentle 28.7km/h (17.8mph). Weather in August »
Weather in September
September is often characterized by significant rainfall, with a massive leap to 58mm (2.28") from the preceding month, over 15.5 days. Taking precedence, this is one key characteristic of September's weather pattern in Jaffna. Weather in September »
Weather in October
The weather in October registers the highest rainfall in Jaffna, with a whopping 191mm (7.52") precipitation. Tremendous moisture, accumulated in clouds, is released over 22.6 days of the month. An understanding of Jaffna's traditional climatic rhythm suggests that the rainy season intensifies during this month. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November brings along a continuation of the wet season, a hallmark of Jaffna's annual weather cycle. Exceptionally high rainfall, close to October’s record, signifies the ongoing intensity of the monsoon. The shift towards the year-end also ushers in shorter daylight hours while the long-standing humidity persists. Weather in November »
Weather in December
In December, rainfall drops to 140mm (5.51"), indicating the retreat of monsoons from Jaffna. In line with this decline, the atmospheric pressure also elevates to 1010.9 mb from the previous month's recorded. Gradual changes in climatic conditions are becoming evident in Jaffna during December. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What time of the year is the coldest in Jaffna?
January, with an average high of 26.8°C (80.2°F) and a low of 25.5°C (77.9°F), signifies the coldest month of the year in Jaffna.
How much does it rain in Jaffna?
Throughout the year, there are 148.6 rainfall days, and 769mm (30.28") of precipitation is accumulated.
When is the sea coldest in Jaffna?
The month with the coldest seawater is January, with an average sea temperature of 26.8°C (80.2°F).
When is the highest UV index in Jaffna?
January through October and December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the least humid month in Jaffna?
The least humid month in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, is March, with an average relative humidity of 75%.
What is the driest month in Jaffna?
March is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 5.8 days and accumulates 13mm (0.51") of precipitation.
What time of the year is the hottest in Jaffna?
The highest temperatures are recorded in April, with averages reaching a high of 30.4°C (86.7°F) and a low of 28.1°C (82.6°F).
What is the month with the warmest sea water in Jaffna?
With an average sea temperature of 30.1°C (86.2°F), April is the month with the warmest seawater in Jaffna, Sri Lanka.
What is the most humid month in Jaffna?
May, August and September, with an average relative humidity of 79%, are most humid months in Jaffna.
When are the longest days in Jaffna?
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 12h and 42min of daylight.
What month has the most sunshine in Jaffna?
June has the most sunshine of the year in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, with an average of 11.6h of sunshine.
What is the rainiest month in Jaffna?
The month with the most rainfall in Jaffna is October, when the rain falls for 22.6 days and typically aggregates up to 191mm (7.52") of precipitation.
When is the lowest UV index in Jaffna?
The month with the lowest UV index in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, is November, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What is the month with the shortest days in Jaffna?
December has the shortest days of the year in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, with an average of 11h and 36min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Jaffna?
Jaffna, Sri Lanka, does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). +0530 timezone is used throughout the entire year.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Jaffna?
December has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 5.5h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is April (30.4°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (26.8°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is May (29°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (25.5°C).
Average pressure
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
- Average pressure in January:
1012.5mbar - Average pressure in February:
1011.9mbar - Average pressure in March:
1010.7mbar - Average pressure in April:
1008.8mbar - Average pressure in May:
1006.5mbar - Average pressure in June:
1005.9mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1006.2mbar - Average pressure in August:
1006.6mbar - Average pressure in September:
1007.6mbar - Average pressure in October:
1008.9mbar - Average pressure in November:
1009.8mbar - Average pressure in December:
1010.9mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1012.5mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (1005.9mbar).
Average wind speed
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
- Average wind speed in January:
22.9km/h - Average wind speed in February:
20.3km/h - Average wind speed in March:
16.7km/h - Average wind speed in April:
16.7km/h - Average wind speed in May:
28.5km/h - Average wind speed in June:
33.8km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
29.6km/h - Average wind speed in August:
28.7km/h - Average wind speed in September:
28.3km/h - Average wind speed in October:
19.6km/h - Average wind speed in November:
19.2km/h - Average wind speed in December:
23.1km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is June (33.8km/h).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are March and April (16.7km/h).
Average humidity
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
The months with the highest relative humidity are May, August and September (79%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is March (75%).
Average rainfall
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (191mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is March (13mm).
Average rainfall days
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
- Average rainfall days in January:
11.2 days - Average rainfall days in February:
6.6 days - Average rainfall days in March:
5.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
7.5 days - Average rainfall days in May:
6.9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
6.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
10.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13.1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
15.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
22.6 days - Average rainfall days in November:
22.2 days - Average rainfall days in December:
20 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (22.6 days).
The month with the least rainy days is March (5.8 days).
Average sea temperature
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is April (30.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is January (26.8°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 42min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 36min).
- Average sunshine in January:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
10h and 3min - Average sunshine in May:
11h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
11h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
11h and 2min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
10h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 3min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 11h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 30min).
Average sunshine days
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
- Average sunshine days in January:
15.4 days - Average sunshine days in February:
19 days - Average sunshine days in March:
23.9 days - Average sunshine days in April:
22 days - Average sunshine days in May:
23.7 days - Average sunshine days in June:
22.6 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
19.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
17.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
13.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
7.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
6.3 days - Average sunshine days in December:
7 days
The month with the most sunshine days is March (23.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is November (6.3 days).
Average UV index
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and December (UV index 7).
The month with the lowest UV index is November (UV index 6).
Average cloud cover
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
The month with the most cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 47).
The month with the least cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 16).
Average visibility
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
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