The Climate in Sri Lanka

By virtue of location, Sri Lanka being in between 5 and 10 north latitude, the country is blessed with, generally, a warm climate that is moderated by sea breezes and ocean winds and more than ample amount of moisture. Average annual of temperature usually registers 26°C to 28°C. Coldest month is usually January and hottest month is usually May. Sri Lanka has altogether four seasons. The first season starts in mid-May to October which is characterized by winds carrying moisture. If coming from the southwest, heavy rains drenches the mountain slopes and the southwest part of the island. Come October until November, the intermonsoonal months, periodic cyclones knock on the island. The third season from December to March, monsoon winds bring rain on the northeastern part and of the island. The fourth season, which is from March to mid-May, is another intermoonsoonal period however winds are invariably lighter than the October to November season. This is also the season of evening thundershowers.

Although, rain seems to be in almost all the seasons brought about by the monsoon winds, the country still remains relatively hot and humid. During monsoon seasons, the southern part, where Colombo is, experiences short bursts of rain, mostly during nights, the Central Hill Country remains moderate, cool and damp making it perfect for growing the famous black tea, but the northeast, where Trincomalee is compared to the southern part, tends to have heavier downpour and becomes more humid.

Tourists are advised to visit the country during the dry season because of less occurrence of rainfall and humidity levels are low.