Climate and monthly weather forecastPolonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa, located in Sri Lanka, predominantly experiences a Tropical Monsoon climate also known as 'Am' in the Köppen climate classification. The temperature presents only a slight variation over the year, staying within the warm range from 20°C (68°F) to 34.9°C (94.8°F). Observationally, April appears to be the hottest month with a high average temperature of 34.9°C (94.8°F) and a low of 23.5°C (74.3°F). In contrast, January and December are relatively milder with average high temperatures of 29.3°C (84.7°F).Regarding monthly rainfall in Polonnaruwa, there is a perceptible fluctuation, with the highest amounts noticed in October of 214mm (8.43"), November with 166mm (6.54"), and December at 127mm (5"). The rainiest period also aligns with more overcast skies as the cloud percentage peaks between October and December. Conversely, the driest period is from June to September with rainfall precipitously dropping to as low as 15mm (0.59") in June.
The information suggests that the relative humidity in Polonnaruwa is generally high, standard for a tropical environment. The city experiences a minor reduction in humidity from June to September as it falls to 67%, while it peaks at 84% in December.
The best time to visit Polonnaruwa
Factoring in multiple variables including temperature, rainfall, sunlight hours, and humidity, the most favorable time to visit Polonnaruwa is during the months of January to April. During these months, average high temperatures range from 29.3°C (84.7°F) to 34.9°C (94.8°F). Even though April is the warmest amongst them, the city witnesses an impressive 10.1 hours of sunshine. Rainfall is also low in these months, ensuring that sightseeing and outdoor activities can be enjoyed without interruption.The worst time to visit Polonnaruwa
Based on the available climatological data, the less favorable time to visit Polonnaruwa for outdoor activities would be from October to December. These months not only record the highest rainfall, with October peaking at a whopping 214mm (8.43"), but also showcase the highest levels of cloud coverage and relative humidity, making it less conducive for sightseeing and outdoor pursuits.Spring weather in Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa doesn't have a typical "spring" as in temperate regions, considering its tropical monsoon climate. However, the months of March to May, which correspond to spring in many regions, display an average high temperature range of 33.8°C (92.8°F) to 34.9°C (94.8°F). The average low temperatures also remain warm, ranging from 21.1°C (70°F) to 24.5°C (76.1°F). Rainfall begins to increase noticeably from 38mm (1.5") in March to 103mm (4.06") in May, possibly signaling the beginning of the monsoon season.Summer weather in Polonnaruwa
If one would map the tropical conditions of Polonnaruwa to the traditional summer months in temperate regions, June to August exhibit consistent high temperatures fluctuating marginally from 33.5°C (92.3°F) to 33.7°C (92.7°F), and lows from 24.5°C (76.1°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F). During these months, Polonnaruwa experiences its driest period, with the lowest rainfall recorded in June of 15mm (0.59"). Daily sunshine averages around 11.2 hours with slightly increased wind speeds, reaching up to 23.8km/h (14.8mph) in June.Autumn weather in Polonnaruwa
September to November or "autumn months" in Polonnaruwa are characterized by a significant increase in rainfall. While September experiences 53mm (2.09") of rainfall, it escalates to reach a record 214mm (8.43") in October. High temperatures remain constant, oscillating between 32.7°C (90.9°F) and 33.9°C (93°F), and lower temperatures fluctuating between 23.2°C (73.8°F) and 24.1°C (75.4°F), complementing the autumnal semblance.Winter weather in Polonnaruwa
Respectively, December mirrors January, with an average high temperature of 29.3°C (84.7°F) and a low of 21.4°C (70.5°F), rendering it one of the cooler periods in Polonnaruwa. Relative humidity rises to 84% during this month while the monthly rainfall remains substantial at 127mm (5"). Despite the higher rainfall, the city still enjoys approximately 4.9 hours of sunshine daily, articulating Polonnaruwa's essence as a tropical paradise even during its winter season.Weather in January
In Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, January is characterized by a comparably moderate climate. It is preceded by a cooler December, and while the temperature increases slightly in February, the difference is relatively minor. Humidity and rainfall are notably high this month. Weather in January »Weather in February
In February, the weather in Polonnaruwa remains within a similar spectrum as that of January, albeit with a small increase in temperature. Slightly lower rainfall and humidity levels are present, and the change in weather conditions is primarily characterized by longer daylight hours and higher solar radiation. Weather in February »Weather in March
March heralds a stark contrast in Polonnaruwa's weather, as it departs from the cool and damp February to embrace relatively warmer and drier weather. The onset of the typically hot tropical climate in Sri Lanka is distinguishable. Weather in March »Weather in April
April in Polonnaruwa marks a transition into a much hotter phase. A peak in temperatures is observed, making it the hottest month of the year. The weather pattern takes a turn, featuring the year's highest temperatures climbing up to an average of 34.9°C (94.8°F). Weather in April »Weather in May
The rapid changes in weather continue in May, as the city of Polonnaruwa transitions from the blazing heat of April to cooler and more pacifying conditions. The weather turns agreeable, although the high humidity makes the climate feel warmer than it actually is. Weather in May »Weather in June
In June, Polonnaruwa welcomes dominantly dry weather. Both temperature and precipitation remain fairly low, marking a contrast to the heavier rainfall seen in May. With an average rainfall of just 15mm (0.59") over nearly eight days, June is identified as the driest month of the year in Polonnaruwa. The shift into June finds Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, at an average high-temperature of a still tropical 33.6°C (92.5°F), closely comparable to May's conditions. Weather in June »Weather in July
July, like June, boasts a relatively dry climate in Polonnaruwa, with slightly higher rainfall. The weather trends observed are similar to those in June, with marginal fluctuations in temperature and slightly greater averages in other parameters. Weather in July »Weather in August
August in Polonnaruwa remains warm and relatively dry, mirroring the climate observed in July. The consistency in weather patterns from the previous and to the next month makes for predictability. While the temperatures are fairly consistent with those in July, an increase in rainfall marks a subtle shift towards the wetter months that follow September. The arrival of August in Polonnaruwa sees a recorded average high-temperature of a still tropical 33.7°C (92.7°F), showing little divergence from the previous month's conditions. Weather in August »Weather in September
The onset of September brings about significant changes in the weather of Polonnaruwa. Increased rainfall, paired with stable temperatures, represents the transition into the rainy season. Significantly, the transition from a comparably dry August with 29mm (1.14") of rain to a wetter September with an average rainfall of 53mm (2.09") indicates the official start of the rainy season. Polonnaruwa's transition from August to September introduces an average high-temperature of a still tropical 33.9°C (93°F), marking an insignificant variation from the 33.7°C (92.7°F). Weather in September »Weather in October
As the last quarter of the year unfolds, October achieves the record for the highest average rainfall in Polonnaruwa, with precipitation peaking at 214mm (8.43"). The increased rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures offer relief from the consistent warmth of the previous months. Weather in October »Weather in November
The weather in November mirrors that of October, though with a slight decrease in rainfall and a minor drop in temperature. Despite these mild changes, the heavy rainfall continues to dominate Polonnaruwa's climate. Consistent weather patterns from October to November create a predictability that extends into early December. With the advent of November, Polonnaruwa's high-temperatures adjust to a still tropical 30.5°C (86.9°F), closely aligning with the preceding month. Weather in November »Weather in December
December in Polonnaruwa sees a conclusion to the heavy rainy season that characterizes the final quarter of the year. The gradual decrease in rainfall signifies a transition towards the weather conditions reminiscent of the start of the year. Weather in December »Updated: Jun 10, 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
Polonnaruwa's coldest period falls in January and December, when the average high-temperatures ascend to 29.3°C (84.7°F).
Throughout the year, there are 196.8 rainfall days, and 943mm (37.13") of precipitation is accumulated.
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
The months with the highest UV index in Polonnaruwa are February through October, with an average maximum UV index of 7.
April is the warmest month, exhibiting average temperatures of 34.9°C (94.8°F) at the peak and 23.5°C (74.3°F) at the base.
The months with the lowest humidity are June through September, with an average relative humidity of 67%.
June is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 7.8 days and accumulates 15mm (0.59") of precipitation.
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 12h and 36min of daylight.
With an average of 11.3h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year.
October is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 22.6 days and accumulates 214mm (8.43") of precipitation.
The most humid month is December, with an average relative humidity of 84%.
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 42min of daylight.
Polonnaruwa does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). +0530 timezone is used throughout the entire year.
The month with the least sunshine is December, with an average of 4.9h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is April (34.9°C).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are January and December (29.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is June (24.8°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average low temperature) are January and February (20°C).
Average pressure
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
- Average pressure in January:
1012mbar - Average pressure in February:
1011.6mbar - Average pressure in March:
1010.8mbar - Average pressure in April:
1009.4mbar - Average pressure in May:
1007.8mbar - Average pressure in June:
1007.5mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1007.6mbar - Average pressure in August:
1008mbar - Average pressure in September:
1008.8mbar - Average pressure in October:
1009.5mbar - Average pressure in November:
1009.8mbar - Average pressure in December:
1010.6mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1012mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (1007.5mbar).
Average wind speed
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
- Average wind speed in January:
9.9km/h - Average wind speed in February:
10.3km/h - Average wind speed in March:
8.7km/h - Average wind speed in April:
7.1km/h - Average wind speed in May:
15.9km/h - Average wind speed in June:
23.8km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
22.6km/h - Average wind speed in August:
21.3km/h - Average wind speed in September:
18.7km/h - Average wind speed in October:
11.1km/h - Average wind speed in November:
7.9km/h - Average wind speed in December:
9.1km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is June (23.8km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is April (7.1km/h).
Average humidity
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (84%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are June, July, August and September (67%).
Average rainfall
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (214mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (15mm).
Average rainfall days
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
- Average rainfall days in January:
16 days - Average rainfall days in February:
13.1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
14 days - Average rainfall days in April:
23.6 days - Average rainfall days in May:
17.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
7.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
10.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
11.5 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
22.6 days - Average rainfall days in November:
24.1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
22.9 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is November (24.1 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (7.8 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 42min - 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 30min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 36min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 30min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 24min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 12min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 48min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 42min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 42min).
- Average sunshine in January:
7h and 24min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 12min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 6min - Average sunshine in April:
10h and 6min - Average sunshine in May:
11h and 12min - Average sunshine in June:
11h and 18min
- Average sunshine in July:
11h and 12min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 36min - Average sunshine in September:
10h and 54min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 18min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 24min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 54min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 11h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 4h and 54min).
Average sunshine days
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
- Average sunshine days in January:
11.7 days - Average sunshine days in February:
12.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
14.5 days - Average sunshine days in April:
4.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
10.4 days - Average sunshine days in June:
15.7 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
16 days - Average sunshine days in August:
14.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
13.3 days - Average sunshine days in October:
6.4 days - Average sunshine days in November:
4.2 days - Average sunshine days in December:
5.9 days
The month with the most sunshine days is July (16 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is November (4.2 days).
Average UV index
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
The months with the highest UV index are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 6).
Average cloud cover
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
The month with the most cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 56).
The month with the least cloud cover is May (Cloud cover 26).
Average visibility
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
The months with the highest visibility are May, June, July, August and September (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January and December (7km).
