Hottest February in a Decade: SL’s Dry Spell to Continue till May

Sri Lanka’s Meteorological Department has warned that the current dry spell is likely to continue until May. Meteorologist Janka Kumarage explained that while such weather patterns are typical during these months, global climate change is exacerbating the intensity of the heat.

Despite the prolonged dry conditions, convectional rainfall is expected in March and April, providing temporary relief to drought-affected areas. However, Kumarage emphasized that climate change is driving erratic weather patterns, which could lead to sudden, intense downpours and a heightened risk of extreme weather events.

As temperatures continue to rise, the department has issued advisories, placing most of the country under a “caution” level. While no region has yet reached high caution or danger status, the escalating heat highlights the urgent and growing threat of the climate crisis.

So far, temperatures have not escalated to high caution or danger levels. However, paediatrician Dr. Deepal Perera has emphasised the need to protect children from the rising heat. Dr. Perera urged parents and schools to ensure that children, particularly those engaged in outdoor activities such as sports, stay well-hydrated. He also warned that outdoor workers, including farmers and construction labourers, must drink sufficient water to prevent dehydration, which can lead to severe conditions like heat stroke.  

An analysis of maximum February temperatures in three major Sri Lankan cities—Colombo, Kandy, and Galle—over the past decade (2014–2024) reveals alarming trends. According to data from the Sri Lanka Meteorological Department, Colombo and Galle recorded their highest-ever February temperatures in 2024, while Kandy peaked in 2016 and 2020. In February 2024, Colombo hit 33.5°C—the highest for the month in a decade.  

Now, in 2025, just 20 days into February, Colombo has already reported multiple days with soaring temperatures, surpassing those recorded in February 2024. The temperature chart below highlights this intensifying heatwave: 

Data Source: Here

This data confirms that Colombo is currently experiencing the hottest February in at least a decade. The trend of rising temperatures, seen in 2024 as well, highlights the urgent need to address the growing climate crisis.

Here’s an article about the temperature surge in 2024.