Climate Overview
The climate in Vavuniya is hot. The average annual temperature is 28°C and approximately 1306mm of precipitation falls per year. Vavuniya receives a notable amount of rainfall throughout the year, including during its driest month. Vavuniya sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year.
Temperature
Vavuniya sees moderate temperature variation throughout the year, ranging from 22°C to 35°C. The warmest month is April, 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 25°C. Daily temperature variation is modest, with an average difference of 8°C between highs and lows.
Precipitation
Vavuniya is a fairly wet location, receiving approximately 1306mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 109mm per month. The wettest month is November, averaging 319mm of rainfall. October and December also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is June, with just 30mm. That's 289mm 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
Vavuniya is mildly breezy, with an average annual wind speed of 12km/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 19km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in April, with average winds dropping to 7km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. Wind speeds vary significantly across the year, with a 12km/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, 10km/h in spring, 18km/h in summer, 12km/h in autumn.
Seasons
87 days until Winter
It is currently autumn in Vavuniya, which began on September 23, 2026. Vavuniya sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced. Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in April 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 35°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 255mm for the season, averaging 85mm per month. Winds are generally light, averaging 10km/h. An umbrella or waterproof jacket is advisable as spring showers are frequent.
Summer
Temperatures range from 26 to 34°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 151mm over the season and a monthly average of 50mm. Winds are moderate at around 18km/h. Light, breathable clothing is ideal. Perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 24 to 33°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 609mm across the season with a monthly average of 203mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 12km/h. A waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear are recommended as rain becomes more frequent.
Winter
Temperatures range from 22 to 31°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 291mm for the season, averaging 97mm per month. 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 Vavuniya 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.
