January weather forecast
Ratnapura, Sri Lanka

With temperatures typically peaking at 29.3°C (84.7°F) and hitting lows of approximately 18.8°C (65.8°F), January in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, boasts a favoured warm environment. This month witnesses relative humidity lingering around an average of 80%, embellishing the sultry air so characteristic of this part of the globe. Rain surfaces in some form on approximately 19 days of this month, while, consistent with the tropical monsoon climate, winds average a sedate 4.2km/h (2.6mph). The bright sun manages to break through the cloud cover on a monthly average of 9.2 days, bringing enchantment to the overall weather.

Temperature

January's arrival in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, registers an average high-temperature of a still moderately hot 29.3°C (84.7°F), closely aligning with the temperature of the previous month. Ratnapura's temperature tends to fall to an average low of 18.8°C (65.8°F) during the nights of January.

Heat index

January's mean heat index is evaluated at a sweltering 36°C (96.8°F). Adopt extra preventive measures, the occurrence of heat cramps and heat exhaustion is likely. Heatstroke may follow extended activity.
Factoring in the heat index, values are geared towards shaded areas with light breezes. The heat index may scale up by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees with direct sun exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', stands as a testimony to how temperature and humidity combine to impact our sense of warmth. One's perception of temperature is subjective, varying based on their activity and individual heat perception, influenced by factors like wind, clothing, and metabolic variations. Given direct exposure to sunlight, one might experience a rise in the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are quite important for babies and toddlers. Kids generally face higher risks than adults as they sweat less. Along with their large skin surface compared to their small bodies and higher heat production due to their activities, their vulnerability is increased.
When it comes to cooling down, the human body's primary method is through perspiration, making use of sweat evaporation to eliminate excess heat. During high air temperature and humidity (high heat index), the process of perspiration is hindered, intensifying the sensation of heat. Inadequate heat shedding in the face of rising body temperatures hints at potential dehydration risks.

Humidity

The months with the lowest humidity are January and February, with an average relative humidity of 80%.

Rainfall

January is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 18.9 days and accumulates 85mm (3.35") of precipitation.

Daylight

In January, the average length of the day is 11h and 47min.
On the first day of January, sunrise is at 06:19 and sunset at 18:03. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:26 and sunset at 18:16 +0530.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in January is 8.3h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, are January through August, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high threat to health from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for the average person.
Note: The UV index of 6 during January translates into the following guidance:
Fend off overexposure. Sun protection is vital. Limit direct sun exposure and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the time of the most intense UV radiation, noting that shade structures may not provide total sun protection. A hat with a generous brim can prevent nearly 50% of UV rays from reaching your eyes.