August weather forecast
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

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.

Temperature

The shift to August in Polonnaruwa signals an average high-temperature of a still tropical 33.7°C (92.7°F), subtly varied from July's 33.5°C (92.3°F). Throughout August, an average low-temperature of 24.3°C (75.7°F) is experienced in Polonnaruwa.

Heat index

In August, the heat index is computed to be a blistering 44°C (111.2°F). Notice: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely. Continued strenuous activity might lead to heatstroke.
Be advised, the heat index considers values for conditions in shade and with a light breeze. Heat index values may be hiked up by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees under direct sunshine.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', gauges the sensation of temperature factoring in the air's moisture content. One's perception of weather can be shaped by other factors, involving metabolic differences, pregnancy, and physical exertion. It is important to note that direct sunlight can intensify the weather impact, potentially raising the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly important for children. Young children are more at risk than adults since they tend to sweat less. Moreover, their large skin surface in proportion to their small bodies and the high heat production due to their activities contribute to their vulnerability.
Perspiration and the resultant sweat evaporation are the body's natural thermostat, helping regulate temperature. When relative humidity is at high levels, the evaporation rate lessens, causing the body to keep more heat than it would in less humid conditions. When heat uptake goes beyond the body's cooling mechanisms, there's a surge in body temperature, posing health risks.

Humidity

June through September, with an average relative humidity of 67%, are the least humid months in Polonnaruwa.

Rainfall

In August, the rain falls for 11.5 days. Throughout August, 29mm (1.14") of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, in Polonnaruwa, there are 196.8 rainfall days, and 943mm (37.13") of precipitation is accumulated.

Daylight

The average length of the day in August is 12h and 23min.
On the first day of August in Polonnaruwa, sunrise is at 05:58 and sunset at 18:26. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:58 and sunset at 18:14 +0530.

Sunshine

In Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, the average sunshine in August is 9.6h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are February through October, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high threat to health from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: The daily maximum UV index of 7 in August interprets into the following advice:
Avoid overexposure. Fair-skinned individuals can burn in under 20 minutes. Stay in the shade and avoid direct Sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a time when UV radiation is at its strongest, and remember that parasols or canopies do not offer full protection. For effective sun eye protection, rely on sunglasses certified for UVA and UVB resistance.