Climate Overview
The climate in Kataragama is hot. The average annual temperature is 27°C and approximately 1392mm of precipitation falls per year. November is the wettest month, receiving around 335mm of rainfall. Kataragama sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year.
Temperature
Kataragama sees moderate temperature variation throughout the year, ranging from 22°C to 35°C. The warmest month is July, when average highs reach 35°C and the mean temperature sits around 29°C. January is the coolest month, with minimum temperatures around 22°C and an average of 26°C. On average, daily temperatures fluctuate by about 9°C between overnight lows and afternoon highs.
Precipitation
Kataragama is a fairly wet location, receiving approximately 1392mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 116mm per month. The wettest month is November, averaging 335mm of rainfall. October and December also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is June, with just 24mm. That's 311mm less than November, the wettest month. Rainfall is heavily concentrated in certain months, creating a distinct wet and dry season. Visitors should plan around these patterns, as the difference between peak and low months is dramatic.
Wind
Kataragama is relatively calm, with an average annual wind speed of 11km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is June, averaging 17km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in November, with average winds dropping to 6km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. Wind speeds vary significantly across the year, with a 11km/h difference between the calmest and windiest months. This level of variation is worth factoring into travel plans. Wind tends to pick up during the summer months. The seasonal averages are 10km/h in winter, 9km/h in spring, 16km/h in summer, 10km/h in autumn.
Seasons
87 days until Winter
It is currently autumn in Kataragama, which began on September 23, 2026. Kataragama sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced. Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in July at around 35°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in January near 22°C. Winter is next, beginning on December 21, 2026 (87 days from now).
Spring
Temperatures range from 23 to 33°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 363mm across the season with a monthly average of 121mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 9km/h. An umbrella or waterproof jacket is advisable as spring showers are frequent.
Summer
Temperatures range from 25 to 35°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 96mm over the season and a monthly average of 32mm. Winds are moderate at around 16km/h. Light, breathable clothing is ideal. Perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 23 to 34°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 593mm across the season with a monthly average of 198mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 10km/h. A waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear are recommended as rain becomes more frequent.
Winter
Temperatures range from 22 to 31°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 340mm across the season with a monthly average of 113mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 10km/h. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient, though cooler evenings may call for an extra layer.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for Kataragama based on historical weather data. Min and max temperatures represent typical overnight lows and afternoon highs for each month, shown in degrees Celsius (°C). Precipitation is measured in millimetres (mm) and indicates the average total rainfall per month. Wind speed is the average sustained speed in kilometres per hour (km/h). All values are based on averages from over 10 years of historical weather data. The current month is highlighted for quick reference.
