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Contents
- The climate of Puttalam
- The best time to visit Puttalam
- The worst time to visit Puttalam
- Spring weather in Puttalam
- Summer weather in Puttalam
- Autumn weather in Puttalam
- Winter weather in Puttalam
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Puttalam
Situated in Sri Lanka, Puttalam owns a distinctive tropical climate known as tropical savanna, in accordance with the Köppen climate classification. Described as "As," this climate type is distinguished by a dry 'summer' season.
Throughout the year, the weather in Puttalam characteristically features high temperatures and substantial humidity levels. Monthly averages of maximum temperatures flutter between 29.3°C (84.7°F) and 31.9°C (89.4°F), while the minimum temperatures remain steady from 22.8°C (73°F) to 27.4°C (81.3°F). This slight variation in temperatures through the year translates into a relatively stable climate, with the warmest months typically being March to June.
Humidity levels remain high year-round with the relative humidity ranging from 73% to 80%. The combined elements of high temperatures and high humidity contribute to an overall hot and wet climate. The city experiences a rainfall pattern that is variable, with monthly rainfall totals ranging from 31mm (1.22") to 195mm (7.68"). The cloud cover ranges from 22% to 47%, rendering a slightly overcast year-round.
Wind speed in Puttalam experiences noticeable variation throughout the year with speeds varying from 14.1km/h (8.8mph) to 30.4km/h (18.9mph). The gust speed can reach a maximum of 42.4km/h (26.3mph), adding to the weather's overall dynamism. Another key climate factor is pressure- with average pressure remaining between 1007.5 mb and 1012 mb. Consequently, this coastal city witnesses a relatively balanced atmospheric pressure.
Throughout the year, the weather in Puttalam characteristically features high temperatures and substantial humidity levels. Monthly averages of maximum temperatures flutter between 29.3°C (84.7°F) and 31.9°C (89.4°F), while the minimum temperatures remain steady from 22.8°C (73°F) to 27.4°C (81.3°F). This slight variation in temperatures through the year translates into a relatively stable climate, with the warmest months typically being March to June.
Humidity levels remain high year-round with the relative humidity ranging from 73% to 80%. The combined elements of high temperatures and high humidity contribute to an overall hot and wet climate. The city experiences a rainfall pattern that is variable, with monthly rainfall totals ranging from 31mm (1.22") to 195mm (7.68"). The cloud cover ranges from 22% to 47%, rendering a slightly overcast year-round.
Wind speed in Puttalam experiences noticeable variation throughout the year with speeds varying from 14.1km/h (8.8mph) to 30.4km/h (18.9mph). The gust speed can reach a maximum of 42.4km/h (26.3mph), adding to the weather's overall dynamism. Another key climate factor is pressure- with average pressure remaining between 1007.5 mb and 1012 mb. Consequently, this coastal city witnesses a relatively balanced atmospheric pressure.
The best time to visit Puttalam
While Puttalam remains warm throughout the year, months with less rainfall could be considered more agreeable for touring. This designates the period of January to March and July as the most favorable periods to visit. Taking into consideration factors such as lower rainfall, cooler temperatures, and a high UV index of 7, this time frame provides suitable weather conditions for exploration and sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Puttalam
The period from October to December sees the heaviest rainfall, with amounts reaching up to 195mm (7.68") in October and again in November. This potentially soaking weather, coupled with high humidity levels reaching up to 79-80%, might make this timeframe less desirable for visitors. Also, the fact that these months experience the shortest sunshine days, with only four to four and a half hours of sunlight per day, underscores their unsuitability for travel.
Spring weather in Puttalam
The spring season, spread over March, April, and May, presents high temperatures ranging between 31.3°C (88.3°F) and 31.9°C (89.4°F). Even the low temperatures stay well above 20, with readings from 24.8°C (76.6°F) to 27.4°C (81.3°F). The city receives an average of 9.6h to 9.7h of sunshine per day with a relative humidity of 73% to 78%.
Summer weather in Puttalam
Summers in Puttalam, extending from June to August, are characterized by a slight decrease in maximum temperatures staying within 29.8°C (85.6°F) to 30.4°C (86.7°F). Minimum temperatures, however, remain relatively stable, ranging from 26.3°C (79.3°F) to 27.2°C (81°F). Despite the onset of summer, Puttalam remains humid, with relative humidity percentages wavering between 77% and 78%.
Autumn weather in Puttalam
Autumn months (September, October, and November) experience a surge in rainfall. The rainfall in November reaches 193mm (7.6") on average, representing the second wettest month after October. Despite the increase in rain, temperatures remain stable, with the highs oscillating between 30°C (86°F) to 30.2°C (86.4°F) and the lows remaining comfortably within 25.8°C (78.4°F) to 26.5°C (79.7°F).
Winter weather in Puttalam
In the winter months of December to February, temperatures vary from a high of 29.3°C (84.7°F) in December to 30.6°C (87.1°F) in February. The lows make a more definite dip from 23.9°C (75°F) to 22.8°C (73°F). Rainfall drops significantly during this time—142mm (5.59") in December to only 31mm (1.22") in February, and the average daylight time is 11.7 hours, the lowest of the year. A moderate wind speed between 19.5km/h (12.1mph) to 21.1km/h (13.1mph) is also observed through these months.
Weather in January
January weather in Puttalam, Sri Lanka retains a warm ambiance. It leans marginally dry as compared to the preceding December and the oncoming February. A moderate amount of rainfall with higher hours of sunshine distinguishes the month. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February in Puttalam ushers in a slightly increased average temperature and prolonged daily sunshine. These factors make the second month of the year an alluring time for visitors seeking a warm climate. The consistently high visibility coupled with decreasing rainfall from January enhances the overall outdoor experience. Weather in February »
Weather in March
Compared to February, March in Puttalam experiences a transition towards an extensive wet season characterized by augmented relative humidity. It paints a picture of subtropical monsoon weather with increased heat and moisture. The increased average temperature makes this period somewhat warmer, offering ample daylight hours for outdoor activities. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Puttalam is recognized by a noteworthy climb in the average temperature and relative humidity. Compared to March, clouds become slightly more prominent, subtly darkening the sky. Notwithstanding, the amount of sunshine per day remains relatively high, proving it a satisfying time for outdoor exploration. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May features slightly cooler temperatures than April, with increasing cloud cover and rainfall days. Despite the rain, the city’s natural charm remains unaffected. The high relative humidity defines the weather, giving it a distinctive moist subtropical feeling. Weather in May »
Weather in June
In June, Puttalam experiences a subtly cool shift in temperature compared to May, but the high humidity remains constant. While the city undergoes regular rainfall, the cloud cover assurance results in slightly fewer sunshine hours per day. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July offers marginally lower temperatures than June, creating a mildly cooler environment. However, the cloud cover and humidity create a perception of a humid subtropical climate. Despite the onset of the monsoon season, the persistent high visibility allows the natural beauty of Puttalam to shine through the rain. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August weather in Puttalam witnesses a slight climb in temperature making it marginally warmer than July. The increase in cloud cover, coupled with a constant UV index, reinforces the city’s tropical monsoon climate. The prevailing visibility combined with marginally reduced rainfall and consistent sunshine hours renders the month suitable for various outdoor activities. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September brings in minimal temperature change in Puttalam, maintaining the same warmth as August. With consistent visibility and increased rainfall experienced across the city, the weather leans towards the tropical monsoon genre. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Puttalam integrates a slight drop in temperature, making the month slightly cooler than September. In addition to the gradual cooling, the significant surge in rainfall sets October apart as the rainiest month of the year with 195mm (7.68") of precipitation. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Puttalam comes with a cooler ambiance compared to October, although the relative humidity stays high. The city encounters a mild contraction in daylight hours and sunshine duration. Notwithstanding the surge in rainfall in the preceding month, the weather stabilizes itself with a reduction in rainfall to 193mm (7.6"), fostering a less torrential setting. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December attributes a further drop in temperature compared to November, welcoming slightly cooler days in Puttalam. The ongoing contraction in daylight hours coupled with slightly higher cloud cover gives a perception of shorter days. 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
What time of the year is the coldest in Puttalam?
During January and December, Puttalam experiences its lowest temperatures, averaging a high-temperature of 29.3°C (84.7°F).
What is the driest month in Puttalam?
The months with the least rainfall are January and February Rain falls for 11.9 days and accumulates 31mm (1.22") of rain.
How much does it rain in Puttalam?
Throughout the year, in Puttalam, Sri Lanka, there are 221.7 rainfall days, and 1071mm (42.17") of precipitation is accumulated.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Puttalam?
January through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index.
What are the months with the lowest UV index in Puttalam?
The months with the lowest UV index in Puttalam are January through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7.
What is the least humid month in Puttalam?
March is the least humid month in Puttalam, Sri Lanka, with an average relative humidity of 73%.
What month is the hottest in Puttalam?
April is the warmest month of the year, registering average temperatures as high as 31.9°C (89.4°F) and as low as 26.8°C (80.2°F).
When are the longest days in Puttalam?
The month with the longest days in Puttalam is June, with an average of 12h and 36min of daylight.
What month has the most sunshine in Puttalam?
The month with the most sunshine in Puttalam, Sri Lanka, is June, with an average of 9.8h of sunshine.
What is the wettest month in Puttalam?
October is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 24 days and accumulates 195mm (7.68") of precipitation.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Puttalam?
The month with the least sunshine in Puttalam, Sri Lanka, is November, with an average of 6h of sunshine.
What is the most humid month in Puttalam?
The most humid month in Puttalam, Sri Lanka, is December, with an average relative humidity of 80%.
What is the month with the shortest days in Puttalam?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 42min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Puttalam?
Puttalam does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). +0530 timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is April (31.9°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 May (27.4°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (22.8°C).
Average pressure
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
- Average pressure in January:
1012mbar - Average pressure in February:
1011.5mbar - Average pressure in March:
1010.6mbar - Average pressure in April:
1009.2mbar - Average pressure in May:
1007.7mbar - Average pressure in June:
1007.5mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1007.7mbar - Average pressure in August:
1008mbar - Average pressure in September:
1008.8mbar - Average pressure in October:
1009.4mbar - 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
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
- Average wind speed in January:
21.1km/h - Average wind speed in February:
19.6km/h - Average wind speed in March:
14.8km/h - Average wind speed in April:
14.1km/h - Average wind speed in May:
24.4km/h - Average wind speed in June:
30.4km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
28.6km/h - Average wind speed in August:
27.8km/h - Average wind speed in September:
26.5km/h - Average wind speed in October:
18km/h - Average wind speed in November:
15.6km/h - Average wind speed in December:
19.5km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is June (30.4km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is April (14.1km/h).
Average humidity
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (80%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is March (73%).
Average rainfall
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (195mm).
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are January and February (31mm).
Average rainfall days
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
- Average rainfall days in January:
11.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10.5 days - Average rainfall days in March:
14.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
21.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
19.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
20.6 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
17.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
18 days - Average rainfall days in September:
17.4 days - Average rainfall days in October:
24 days - Average rainfall days in November:
25.1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
20.7 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is November (25.1 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (10.5 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 4min
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:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
6h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 9h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is November (Average sunshine: 6h and 0min).
Average sunshine days
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
- Average sunshine days in January:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
15.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
12.7 days - Average sunshine days in April:
3.6 days - Average sunshine days in May:
5 days - Average sunshine days in June:
4.8 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
10.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
8.2 days - Average sunshine days in September:
6.1 days - Average sunshine days in October:
4.1 days - Average sunshine days in November:
4.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
8.3 days
The month with the most sunshine days is January (16.8 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (3.6 days).
Average UV index
Puttalam, 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
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
The month with the most cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 47).
The month with the least cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 22).
Average visibility
Puttalam, Sri Lanka
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and December (10km).
The month with the lowest visibility is November (9km).
