January weather forecast
Colombo, Sri Lanka

January in Colombo, Sri Lanka, provides a mixture of both pleasant and challenging climatic conditions. Temperature highs peak at 30.8°C (87.4°F) during the daytime, with a slight cooling at nights to about 23.1°C (73.6°F). Although temperatures are typically comfortable, a high level of humidity at 74% leads to wet conditions. Travelers need to be prepared with suitable clothing and gear as rainfall of 40mm (1.57") spread over 11.6 days occurs during this period. Despite the rains, a significant amount of daylight remains providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and leisure activities.

Temperature

Colombo's average high-temperature in January sits at a hot 30.8°C (87.4°F), showing little difference from the previous month. In Colombo, the average nighttime temperature during January is a warm 23.1°C (73.6°F).

Heat index

The heat index value during January is computed to be a sweltering 38°C (100.4°F). Greater preventive actions are needed, heat exhaustion and heat cramps are likely. Persistent activity could provoke heatstroke.
Take into consideration that the heat index values are calculated for shade and light wind conditions. Direct sunlight can potentially boost the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'felt air temperature', is a calculation that merges air temperature and relative humidity to depict the sensation of warmth. Additional elements including metabolic differences, the level of physical activity, and attire have a role in shaping the individual's temperature perception. Direct sunlight exposure should be noted as it has the potential to increase the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are quite important for babies and toddlers. Youths are typically more endangered than adults since they usually sweat less. Their larger skin surface concerning their smaller bodies and higher heat production due to activity further adds to their vulnerability.
The human body has a built-in cooling mechanism through perspiration; evaporating sweat dissipates the excess heat. Higher relative humidity impedes evaporation, thus reducing heat dispersion from the body, culminating in a sensation of overheating. Excessive heat gain, when not shed effectively by the body, can result in increasing body temperatures and related hazards.

Humidity

January and February, with an average relative humidity of 74%, are the least humid months in Colombo.

Rainfall

The month with the least rainfall in Colombo is January, when the rain falls for 11.6 days and typically collects 40mm (1.57") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

In Colombo, in January, the average water temperature is 27.7°C (81.9°F).
Note: Water activities in surface temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) are seen as exceptional and extremely agreeable for lengthened time spans.

Daylight

The average length of the day in January is 11h and 46min.
On the first day of January, sunrise is at 06:21 and sunset at 18:05. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:29 and sunset at 18:18 +0530.

Sunshine

The month with the most sunshine is January, with an average of 9.1h of sunshine.

UV index

January through April, July, September, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index in Colombo. A UV Index value of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for the average person.
Note: A maximum high daily UV index of 7 during January translates into the following directions:
Beware of overexposure. Fair-skinned individuals risk burning in less than 20 minutes. The Sun's UV radiation is at its strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Minimize direct exposure to the sun during this period. Boost your sun resistance with garments that are densely woven yet spacious. Take heed! Reflections of sand and water make the Sun's UV rays stronger.