Weekly Air Quality Update for Sri Lanka
11 – 17 May 2026
Summary
In general, cleaner air flowed into Sri Lanka from the southwestern direction during the past week, contributing to generally favorable air quality conditions. However, on 12th May, Akurana and Battaramulla, and on 13th May, Colombo, recorded daily average AQI values in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category. The remaining days of the week showed “Moderate” and “Good” daily average AQI values. Battaramulla recorded the highest daily average AQI value of 107, which falls under the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” AQI category.
When considering weekly average AQI values, all monitored areas recorded “Moderate” weekly average AQI levels.
Weekly Air Quality Index (AQI) Levels:
- Moderate (AQI 51-100): Akurana, Digana, Nuwara Eliya, Kurunegala, Puttalam, Mirihana, Negombo, Battaramulla, Chilaw, Kalawana, Ambalantota, Mannar, Trincomalee, Jaffna, Anuradhapura
Read more about AQ color scale and real-time air quality stations operated by FECT https://fect.lk/air-quality/
Observed fine particulate measurements by the minute for last days
Air Quality impact on human health
Fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) are generally 2.5 microns and smaller in size. Such particles are inhalable and easily lodges inside the lungs reducing capacity. PM2.5 is a concern for people’s health when levels in the air are high. The levels of risk are shown in the dial shown against the US EPA air quality standards. AQ has a scale that run from 0-500, that tells you how clean or polluted your air is. Each level on the scale corresponds to a different level of health concern.