January weather forecast
Galle, Sri Lanka

January in Galle, Sri Lanka brings a relatively mild introduction to the year. Often, the city experiences a more agreeable climate, balancing a slightly cooler temperature compared to the other months. Also, sea temperatures are enjoyable, attracting a substantial influx of tourists. Intriguingly, wind speeds do peak at about 8.6km/h (5.3mph), creating a refreshing and light breeze. Despite receiving 38mm (1.5") of rainfall spread across slightly fewer than 15 days, the weather remains mainly agreeable.

Temperature

January's onset brings an average high-temperature of a still moderately hot 29.2°C (84.6°F), showing a minute difference from December's 28.9°C (84°F). Galle records a mean low-temperature of 24°C (75.2°F) in January.

Heat index

The average heat index in January is appraised at a sweltering 35°C (95°F). Ensure extra safety measures, heat exhaustion and heat cramps are likely. Continuous activity might result in heatstroke.
Note that heat index values are valued for light wind and location in the shade. When under direct sunshine, the heat index may be elevated by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'real feel', combines air temperature and relative humidity to represent a human perceived temperature equivalent. Factors such as metabolic variation, pregnancy, and physical activity play a role in one's impression of weather. Direct exposure to the sun's rays can enhance the felt temperature, increasing the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical to babies and toddlers. Young kids are often more at risk than adults as they tend to perspire less. Besides, their skin surface is larger relative to their small bodies, and their increased heat output from their active lifestyle compounds their risk.
Evaporating sweat is a key way the human body dispels excessive warmth, all thanks to the process of perspiration. In conditions of both high temperature and humidity (a high heat index), sweating is limited and the perception of heat is enhanced. When the body is unable to balance heat gain, its temperature elevates, which may induce thermal illnesses.

Humidity

In January, the average relative humidity is 78%.

Rainfall

January is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 14.8 days and accumulates 38mm (1.5") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

In January, the average sea temperature is 27.8°C (82°F).
Note: Temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) are ideal for swimming, diving, and similar water activities, ensuring pleasure and comfort for extended periods without feeling uneasy.

Daylight

In Galle, the average length of the day in January is 11h and 49min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:18 and sunset at 18:05. On the last day of January, in Galle, sunrise is at 06:26 and sunset at 18:18 +0530.

Sunshine

In Galle, the average sunshine in January is 9h.

UV index

January through April, June through August, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health hazard from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: The maximum UV index, 7 during January, leads to the following recommendations:
Sidestep overexposure. Individuals with fair complexions risk burning in fewer than 20 minutes. Minimize exposure to direct sunlight and seek shade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most intense, but remember that shade structures may not offer complete protection. Consider a wide-brim hat essential for effective sun defense covering your face, neck, and eyes. Notice! Sand and water reflections contribute to a stronger UV exposure.