The Climate and Weather in Southern Province, Sri Lanka
The Southern Province of Sri Lanka is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. The region experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Understanding the climate and weather patterns can help visitors plan their trips and make the most of their time in this beautiful part of the country.
Climate
The Southern Province is situated in the southern part of Sri Lanka and is influenced by the Indian Ocean and the southwest monsoon. The region experiences a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The average annual temperature ranges from 27°C (81°F) to 32°C (90°F), making it a warm and pleasant destination for travelers.
The region can be divided into two main climatic zones: the coastal areas and the inland areas. The coastal areas, including popular destinations like Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Mirissa, have a slightly different climate compared to the inland areas due to the influence of the ocean.
Coastal Areas
The coastal areas of the Southern Province have a relatively constant temperature throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 30°C (86°F) to 32°C (90°F) and average lows ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 25°C (77°F). The sea breeze helps to keep the temperatures comfortable, especially during the hotter months.
The region experiences two distinct monsoon seasons: the southwest monsoon and the northeast monsoon. The southwest monsoon occurs from May to September, bringing heavy rainfall to the coastal areas. This period is not ideal for beach activities and water sports due to the rough sea conditions. On the other hand, the northeast monsoon, which occurs from November to February, brings drier and calmer weather, making it a popular time to visit the coastal areas.
Inland Areas
The inland areas of the Southern Province, including cities like Matara and Ratnapura, have a slightly different climate compared to the coastal areas. The temperature in these areas can be slightly higher, with average highs ranging from 30°C (86°F) to 32°C (90°F) and average lows ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 25°C (77°F).
The region experiences a similar monsoon pattern as the coastal areas but with some variations. The southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall from May to September, while the northeast monsoon brings drier weather from December to February. However, the inland areas tend to receive less rainfall compared to the coastal areas.
Weather by Month
Here is a breakdown of the weather patterns in the Southern Province by month:
| Month | Average High (°C) | Average Low (°C) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31 | 23 | 66 |
| February | 31 | 23 | 52 |
| March | 32 | 24 | 88 |
| April | 32 | 25 | 203 |
| May | 31 | 25 | 421 |
| June | 30 | 25 | 321 |
| July | 30 | 24 | 282 |
| August | 30 | 24 | 235 |
| September | 30 | 24 | 342 |
| October | 30 | 24 | 386 |
| November | 31 | 24 | 297 |
| December | 31 | 23 | 182 |
The above table shows the average high and low temperatures, as well as the average rainfall in millimeters, for each month in the Southern Province. It is important to note that these values are averages and can vary from year to year.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Southern Province depends on the activities you plan to engage in and your personal preferences. The peak tourist season in the region is during the drier months from November to February, when the weather is generally sunny and the sea conditions are calm. This period is ideal for beach activities, water sports, and diving.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don't mind occasional rainfall, the shoulder seasons of March to April and September to October can also be good times to visit. During these months, you can enjoy lower hotel rates and fewer tourists while still experiencing relatively good weather.
It is important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, and sudden rain showers can occur even during the dry season. Therefore, it is always advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
In Summary
The Southern Province of Sri Lanka experiences a tropical monsoon climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The coastal areas have a slightly different climate compared to the inland areas, with the influence of the Indian Ocean.
The region experiences two distinct monsoon seasons: the southwest monsoon from May to September and the northeast monsoon from November to February. The coastal areas receive heavier rainfall during the southwest monsoon, while the inland areas receive less rainfall but still experience some showers.
The best time to visit the Southern Province is during the drier months from November to February, when the weather is generally sunny and the sea conditions are calm. However, the shoulder seasons of March to April and September to October can also be good times to visit, with lower hotel rates and fewer tourists.
Whether you're looking for pristine beaches, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, the Southern Province of Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for every traveler. Plan your trip accordingly and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of the country.
A - Southern Province's Latitude is 8.000000 & Longitude is -12.250000.
A - Weather in Southern Province is 24° today.
A - Climate Conditions in Southern Province shows clear sky today.
A - Humidity in Southern Province is 93% today.
A - Wind speed in Southern Province is 2.27 km/h, flowing at 210° wind direction. today.
