Climate and monthly weather forecastKurunegala, Sri Lanka

The climate of Kurunegala

Positioned in the tropical rainforest zone according to the Köppen Climate Classification, Kurunegala, Sri Lanka, experiences a year-round humid and warm climate. Elements such as high temperature, significant rainfall, and constant humidity are prevalent features of this tropical realm.

A detailed examination of the climate data reveals that the temperature in Kurunegala transition from 28.6°C (83.5°F) in December to a peak of 32.9°C (91.2°F) in April. This offers a consistent tropical feel with a moderate variation through the year. The minimum temperature hovers between a comfortable 18.9°C (66°F) in February to a warmer 23°C (73.4°F) in May.

Regarding rainfall, the data unveils extensive showers throughout the year with greater intensity between September and December, where the rainfall extends from 201mm (7.91") to 267mm (10.51"). Besides, the number of rainfall days also tends to peak during this period, adding to the lush rainforest ambiance of the region. In contrast, a relative lull in rainfall occurs during June with the number declining to as low as 29mm (1.14").

The city exhibits consistency in other weather parameters. The percentage of cloud cover remarkably stands between 29% and 46%, ensuring a good balance of sun and clouds. The average visibility ranges from 8km (5mi) to 10km (6.2mi) throughout the year, indicating a clear sky for most days.

The best time to visit Kurunegala

It must be borne in mind that the best time to visit Kurunegala is subjective to the visitor's weather preference. However, if the pleasure lies in exploring the outdoors, December to February can be considered beneficial months. During this time, the temperature averages at a lower limit of 28.6°C (83.5°F), and rainfall is relatively less intense. Sunlight is also plentiful around these months, with average daylight hours of 11.7 to 11.9 and sunshine hours ranging from 5.7 to 8.7 per day.

The worst time to visit Kurunegala

Travellers might want to avoid a visit between September and November where the rainfall is heaviest, reaching a peak of 267mm (10.51") in October. The cloud cover is also at its thickest and sunlight at its least around these months. Relative humidity reaches its highest at 83% in December, increasing the effect of heat.

Spring weather in Kurunegala

In contrast to temperate climates, Kurunegala's spring from March to May does not exhibit a drastic change in weather parameters. These months mark a gradual rise in temperature peaking at 32.9°C (91.2°F) in April. The rainfall amounts have a notable elevation, reaching 120mm (4.72") in April. Hours of daylight and sunshine increase slightly during these months, offering more hours to explore the city's tropical charm.

Summer weather in Kurunegala

Considering June to August as summer months, Kurunegala experiences lesser rainfall, particularly in June where it recedes to 29mm (1.14"). The temperature trend remains moderately warm, between 30.7°C (87.3°F) to 31.8°C (89.2°F). Humidity sees a slight decrease from 77% in May to 74% in June, offering a distinctly tropical summer experience.

Autumn weather in Kurunegala

Autumn is defined by significant rainfall in Kurunegala. From September to November, rainfall measures between 72mm (2.83") to 267mm (10.51"), with October being the wettest month. Despite the showers, temperature stays consistently warm, oscillating between 30.9°C (87.6°F) to 31.2°C (88.2°F). The cloud coverage increases, and the daylight hours subsequently decrease, adding to the monsoon-like atmosphere.

Winter weather in Kurunegala

Winter months in Kurunegala, from December to February, display lower temperatures ranging from 28.6°C (83.5°F) to 30.7°C (87.3°F). Rainfall reduces to its yearly minimum during these months. Although relative humidity measures its highest at 83% in December, the lower temperatures make the climate more tolerable. With average daylight hours over 11 and cloud coverage receding, the winter months offer a more pleasant atmosphere, thus ideal for outdoor activities.

Weather in January

Kurunegala, Sri Lanka starts the year with warm and often humid conditions. The city generally experiences an average high temperature of 29.3°C (84.7°F) and an average low of 19°C (66.2°F) in January. Rainfall does occur, yet it is not the dominating factor of the landscape. Weather in January »

Weather in February

The month of February brings an increase in the average temperatures in Kurunegala, signaling a transition towards hotter days. Compared to January, rainfall amounts escalate, showing a slight increase from 34mm (1.34") to 54mm (2.13"). Weather in February »

Weather in March

In March, the city's weather continues its progression into the heat, offering warmer afternoons. Elongated daylight hours, a slight decrease in relative humidity, and a rise in the ultraviolet index level underpin this fact. Rainfall remains moderate but is scattered throughout the month. Weather in March »

Weather in April

By April, the weather in Kurunegala shifts notably, with heavier rainfall of 120mm (4.72"), marking a significant increase compared to the 54mm (2.13") recorded in March. A surge in rainfall days from 16.1 to 24.7 accompanies this shift. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May maintains high rainfall levels, albeit slightly less than April, giving Kurunegala a characteristic tropical climate feel. This transition period from the peak of heat to early monsoon conditions might result in increased cloud cover. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June marks a significant change in Kurunegala’s weather with rainfall dedication to a mere 29mm (1.14") from the highs of 117mm (4.61") in May, ushering in a drier spell. Sunshine hours increase to their highest annual level, indicating clearer skies and less cloud cover. Weather in June »

Weather in July

Into July, Kurunegala sees a slight increase in rainfall contrasted to June, marking a return to more humid conditions. The progression from dry to wet conditions in July is characterized by gradually declining sunlight hours and shifting wind patterns. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August’s weather in Kurunegala holds steady with similar conditions to July's weather. A slight depression in rainfall from 58mm (2.28") in July back to 46mm (1.81") in August is notable. Despite this, the city maintains its typical warm temperatures and moderately windy conditions. Weather in August »

Weather in September

The weather in September in Kurunegala showcases a slight increase in rainfall from 46mm (1.81") in August to 72mm (2.83"). This increase carries on with the progression from the relatively drier months into the wetter end of the year. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October stands out as Kurunegala's wettest month with rainfall soaring to 267mm (10.51") from 72mm (2.83") in September. Correspondingly, the number of rainy days also significantly hikes. Despite the surge in precipitation, the city's temperatures hold steady, continuing the warm tropical environment. Weather in October »

Weather in November

In November, Kurunegala experiences a slight alleviation from October's extreme rains, with rainfall dropping to 201mm (7.91"). Yet, it remains a wet month, which translates into decreased sunshine hours. Temperature variations from day to night remain minimal throughout November. Weather in November »

Weather in December

In Kurunegala, December signifies the year's end with marginally subsiding rainfall from November, falling to 113mm (4.45"). However, it remains one of the wetter months, showing the continuation of the year-end rainy season. A noticeable drop in average high temperatures happens in this month. Weather in December »