Climate and monthly weather forecastMatara, Sri Lanka
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Matara
Matara, located in stunning Sri Lanka, is characterized by a tropical rainforest climate, classified as 'Af' according to the Köppen climate classification. Nestled in close proximity to the equator, the city experiences high temperatures year-round, and notable rainfall across all months. Throughout the year, there is an average minimum temperature fluctuation from 23°C (73.4°F) to a maximum of 31.1°C (88°F). The corresponding humidity levels remain reasonably steady, ranging from 77% to 81%.Rainfall occurs in all months, with a recorded monthly average varying from 22mm (0.87") to 66mm (2.6"). Consequently, Matara experiences numerous rainfall days throughout the year, ranging from 10.7 days to 19.8 days per month on average. Unsurprisingly, due to its tropical climate, cloud cover is also relatively stable year-round, with an average percentage varying between 26% to 53%.
The strength of the wind varies throughout the year, with an average wind speed fluctuating between 9km/h (5.6mph) and 18.9km/h (11.7mph). The maximum wind speeds can reach up to 19.8km/h (12.3mph) across the year. However, wind gusts can even exceed the average, with gusts ranging from 13.6km/h (8.5mph) to 27km/h (16.8mph).
The best time to visit Matara
For visitors who value more sunshine and less rainfall, the period from January to March serves as an optimal time to visit Matara. During these months, daily sunshine reaches between 8.9 hours to 9.7 hours, and rainfall is relatively less compared to other months, peaking at 32mm (1.26") in March. Daylight hours are at a beneficial high, averaging between 11.8 hours to 12.3 hours. The temperatures are in a comfortable range, with an average high temperature reaching between 30.2°C (86.4°F) to 31.1°C (88°F), and the sea temperature remains warm at an average from 27.7°C (81.9°F) to 29.6°C (85.3°F).The worst time to visit Matara
Months from October to December are arguably the least favorable for tourists due to increased rainfall and reduced sunshine hours. Rainfall in these months can go up to 66mm (2.6"), with November being the wettest of them all. The count of sunshine days drops to a low of 7.8 days in November. Additionally, sunshine hours drop to a minimum of 6.9 hours in December. The wind gusts are relatively high in this period, with the gusts reaching to a high of 23.4km/h (14.5mph) in October.Spring weather in Matara
In Matara, the spring months from March to May, experience stable weather conditions. Daily average high temperatures hover between 30.3°C (86.5°F) to 31.1°C (88°F), while nights cool down to about 24.3°C (75.7°F) to 26.3°C (79.3°F). Rainfall during Spring intensifies, varying from 32mm (1.26") to 54mm (2.13"), skewing towards the later part of the season. Correspondingly, the number of rainy days increases from 16.3 days to 15.6 days. Despite the increased rain, sunshine averages approximately 9.3 hours per day, maintaining a relatively constant sea temperature peaking at 29.6°C (85.3°F).Summer weather in Matara
The summer months, from June to August, identify a noticeable increase in wind speed, which reaches up to 18.9km/h (11.7mph). Despite this, the temperature remains comfortably warm, between 29.3°C (84.7°F) to 29.6°C (85.3°F) during the day, and cools off to 25.6°C (78.1°F) to 26°C (78.8°F) at night. Rainfall remains steady, with monthly levels between 28mm (1.1") to 43mm (1.69"). Although the number of daylight hours peaks at 12.5 hours in June, the duration of sunbathing reduces, as sunshine decreases to 8.5 hours per day in July.Autumn weather in Matara
Matara experiences its heaviest rainfall in the autumn months, from September to November, with an average monthly rainfall between 48mm (1.89") and 66mm (2.6"). However, this does not deter from the warm, tropical climate, with daily temperatures fluctuating between 29.1°C (84.4°F) and 29.8°C (85.6°F). The sea remains at a hospitable temperature, averaging between 28.3°C (82.9°F) and 28.8°C (83.8°F). Even with the increase in rainfall, the amount of sunshine Matara receives during autumn ranges between 7.5 hours to 8.6 hours per day.Winter weather in Matara
Winter, from December to February, encounters modest rainfall, from 22mm (0.87") to 30mm (1.18"). The temperature ranges from a high of 29.6°C (85.3°F) to 30.2°C (86.4°F), and the nighttime temperatures average between 23°C (73.4°F) to 23.5°C (74.3°F). Although the duration of daylight decreases to 11.8 hours in December and remains so until February, sunshine hours vary between 6.9 hours to 8.9 hours. The sea temperature during the winter averages between 27.7°C (81.9°F) to 28.3°C (82.9°F), and the wind speed varies from 9km/h (5.6mph) to 10.3km/h (6.4mph), providing a gentle breeze for beachgoers.Weather in January
The commencement of the year in Matara, Sri Lanka sees a relative increase in rainfall, from 22mm (0.87") in the last month of the previous year to 30mm (1.18") in January. The city experiences a good balance between rainfall and sunshine, providing a welcoming climate for sightseeing. Weather in January »Weather in February
Immediately mirroring its predecessor, February shows a marginal increase in high temperatures, rising to 30.9°C (87.6°F) from 30.2°C (86.4°F) in January. Although humidity levels remain similar to the previous month, tourists should expect intermittent showers throughout this period. Weather in February »Weather in March
March reveals a noticeable shift from February, with an increment in both high and low temperatures. The city's weather features regular rain showers which bring about stunning rainbows without fail, adding allure to the landscape. Weather in March »Weather in April
April ushers in the peak of high temperatures, matching March's high at 31.1°C (88°F). Amid the heat, locals and tourists alike can enjoy the increased daylight hours and engage in outdoor activities. The city also receives higher levels of rainfall compared to the preceding month, a characteristic that lends a cooler feel to the environment as the day wears on. Weather in April »Weather in May
May records the highest rainfall of 54mm (2.13"), marking a significant jump from 46mm (1.81") in April. Despite the uptick in rainfall, the city is steeped in a comforting warmth. While rain might dampen some outdoor plans, it brings a cool relief in the tropical climate. Weather in May »Weather in June
June sees a slight drop in both high and low temperatures from the peaks of previous months. Favorable weather conditions persist for outdoor enthusiasts keen on exploring Matara's heritage. The rainfall decreases, compared to May, providing ample opportunity for uninterrupted sightseeing. Weather in June »Weather in July
July's weather largely mirrors that of June, with high temperatures falling further to 29.6°C (85.3°F). The city looks more attractive with lush greenery, thanks to regular showers. With the sea temperature dropping slightly, it is an ideal time for beachgoers who prefer less warm waters. Weather in July »Weather in August
August brings pleasant weather with a modest decrease in both high and low temperatures from 29.6°C (85.3°F) and 25.6°C (78.1°F) in July to 29.3°C (84.7°F) and 25.3°C (77.5°F), respectively. It is another delightful summer month with a suitable balance between rainfall and sunny days. Weather in August »Weather in September
September can be described as a transition period with the high temperature slightly dipping to 29.1°C (84.4°F), compared to 29.3°C (84.7°F) in August. In terms of weather patterns, there are a steady number of sunshine and daylight hours, making it appropriate for long strolls and sightseeing. Weather in September »Weather in October
October ushers in a slight resurgence in high temperatures to 29.6°C (85.3°F), from 29.1°C (84.4°F) in September. The city experiences more frequent showers, bringing about a refreshing change from the preceding drier months. Weather in October »Weather in November
November sees a comparable weather pattern to October, with an insignificant rise in high temperatures. A noticeable characteristic of this month is the highest rainfall of 66mm (2.6"), surpassing the previous high of 63mm (2.48") from October. Weather in November »Weather in December
In December, Matara, Sri Lanka, maintains high temperatures around 29.9°C (85.8°F). The city bids adieu to the year with lesser rainfall, promoting outdoor exploration and making it a desirable destination for holiday celebrations. Weather in December »Updated: Feb 6, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
January and February, with an average relative humidity of 77%, are the least humid months in Matara, Sri Lanka.
January is the month with the least rainfall in Matara, Sri Lanka. Rain falls for 12.3 days and accumulates 22mm (0.87") of precipitation.
In Matara, Sri Lanka, during the entire year, the rain falls for 180 days and collects up to 509mm (20.04") of precipitation.
The month with the coldest seawater is January, with an average sea temperature of 27.7°C (81.9°F).
January through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index in Matara.
The months with the lowest UV index are January through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7.
Matara experiences peak temperatures, averaging a high-temperature of 31.1°C (88°F) during March and April.
With an average sea temperature of 29.6°C (85.3°F), April is the month with the warmest seawater.
April has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 9.7h of sunshine.
The months with the highest humidity are May, September and November, with an average relative humidity of 81%.
With an average of 12h and 30min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Matara.
Temperature readings reach their annual highs in September, averaging 29.1°C (84.4°F) and a minimum average of 25.3°C (77.5°F).
The month with the most rainfall is November, when the rain falls for 19.8 days and typically aggregates up to 66mm (2.6") of precipitation.
With an average of 11h and 48min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Matara does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). +0530 timezone is used over the entire year.
The month with the least sunshine is December, with an average of 6.9h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Matara, Sri Lanka
The warmest months (with the highest average high temperature) are March and April (31.1°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is September (29.1°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is May (26.3°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (23°C).
Average pressure
Matara, Sri Lanka
- Average pressure in January:
1011.4mbar - Average pressure in February:
1011.1mbar - Average pressure in March:
1010.8mbar - Average pressure in April:
1009.9mbar - Average pressure in May:
1008.9mbar - Average pressure in June:
1009.1mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1009.2mbar - Average pressure in August:
1009.5mbar - Average pressure in September:
1010.2mbar - Average pressure in October:
1010.1mbar - Average pressure in November:
1009.8mbar - Average pressure in December:
1010.2mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1011.4mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is May (1008.9mbar).
Average wind speed
Matara, Sri Lanka
- Average wind speed in January:
9km/h - Average wind speed in February:
10.3km/h - Average wind speed in March:
9.6km/h - Average wind speed in April:
9.4km/h - Average wind speed in May:
15.4km/h - Average wind speed in June:
18.8km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
18.9km/h - Average wind speed in August:
18.3km/h - Average wind speed in September:
16.3km/h - Average wind speed in October:
12.6km/h - Average wind speed in November:
9.2km/h - Average wind speed in December:
9.6km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is July (18.9km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is January (9km/h).
Average humidity
Matara, Sri Lanka
The months with the highest relative humidity are May, September and November (81%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are January and February (77%).
Average rainfall
Matara, Sri Lanka
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (66mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (22mm).
Average rainfall days
Matara, Sri Lanka
- Average rainfall days in January:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
13.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
16.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
19.7 days - Average rainfall days in May:
15.6 days - Average rainfall days in June:
10.7 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13.2 days - Average rainfall days in October:
17.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
19.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
17.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is November (19.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (10.7 days).
Average sea temperature
Matara, Sri Lanka
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is April (29.6°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is January (27.7°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Matara, Sri Lanka
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 48min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 54min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 6min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 18min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 24min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 30min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 24min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 18min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 12min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 54min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 48min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
8h and 54min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 42min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 18min - Average sunshine in June:
8h and 54min
- Average sunshine in July:
8h and 30min - Average sunshine in August:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 36min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 6min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 30min - Average sunshine in December:
6h and 54min
The month with the most sunshine is April (Average sunshine: 9h and 42min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 6h and 54min).
Average sunshine days
Matara, Sri Lanka
- Average sunshine days in January:
16.5 days - Average sunshine days in February:
12.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
12.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
8.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
13.5 days - Average sunshine days in June:
17.5 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
17.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
14.5 days - Average sunshine days in October:
11.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
7.8 days - Average sunshine days in December:
11.2 days
The month with the most sunshine days is July (17.8 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is November (7.8 days).
Average UV index
Matara, Sri Lanka
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (UV index 7).
Average cloud cover
Matara, Sri Lanka
The month with the most cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 53).
The month with the least cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 26).
Average visibility
Matara, 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).
