March weather forecast
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

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. As a prelude to the hot and dry April, March experiences an average high temperature of 33.8°C (92.8°F). The month concludes with a growing anticipation of the heat wave in the succeeding month.

Temperature

The average high-temperature in March, at a still tropical 33.8°C (92.8°F), reveals a modest deviation from February's 31.3°C (88.3°F). From the height of daytime heat, the temperature in Polonnaruwa recedes to an average of 21.1°C (70°F) at night during March.

Heat index

The heat index in March is computed to be a burning hot 48°C (118.4°F). Forewarned: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are anticipated. Ongoing physical activity increases the likelihood of heatstroke.
Remember that heat index calculations are made for conditions in the shade with light wind. Exposing to direct sunshine may enhance heat index values by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', gives an indication of how one might feel in terms of heat after considering humidity. One's perception of weather can be shaped by other factors, involving metabolic differences, pregnancy, and physical exertion. Considering the impact of direct sunlight, it's possible for the heat index to surge by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly important for children. Children often do not understand the need to rest and hydrate. Thirst is a late manifestation of dehydration - therefore, it is essential to stay hydrated, particularly during prolonged physical activities.
Humans rely on perspiration as a cooling mechanism, wherein the evaporating sweat counteracts excessive warmth. With excessive moisture in the atmosphere, the effectiveness of the evaporation process is decreased, causing the body to cool down less efficiently, leading to a sensation of overheating. If heat absorption isn't effectively countered by the body's cooling methods, body temperature surges, hinting at potential problems.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in March in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is 73%.

Rainfall

In March, the rain falls for 14 days. Throughout March, 38mm (1.5") of precipitation is accumulated. In Polonnaruwa, during the entire year, the rain falls for 196.8 days and collects up to 943mm (37.13") of precipitation.

Daylight

In March, the average length of the day is 12h and 5min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:18 and sunset at 18:17. On the last day of March, sunrise is at 06:04 and sunset at 18:15 +0530.

Sunshine

In March, the average sunshine in Polonnaruwa is 9.1h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are February through October, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health risk from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the average person.
Note: The maximum daily UV index, 7 in March, converts into the following recommendations:
Eschew overexposure. Those with light skin may suffer burns in fewer than 20 minutes. Be aware that the sun's UV radiation is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and try to reduce direct sun exposure during this period as much as possible. Consider a wide-brim hat essential for effective sun defense covering your face, neck, and eyes.