Weekly Air Quality Update for Sri Lanka
24 - 30 November 2025
Summary
On 27 November, Cyclone Ditwah entered Sri Lanka from the south and moved northward across the country. As it progressed, polluted air began to flow into the country behind its path, and by 30 November, Digana, Mirihana (Cleanco), and Battaramulla (CEA) reported Unhealthy daily AQI values.
During the week, overall air quality across Sri Lanka ranged from Good to Unhealthy. From 24 to 27 November, most locations recorded Good to Moderate daily AQI levels. From 27 to 30 November, daily AQI values rose comparatively.
For the week as a whole, AQI values ranged from Good to Moderate. Mirihana (Cleanco) recorded the highest weekly AQI at 95, while Akurana AV-Outdoor reported the lowest at 37.
Weekly Air Quality Index (AQI) Levels:
Good (AQI 0-50): Akurana-AV-Outdoor, Ambalantota
Moderate (AQI 51-100): Digana, Colombo(Gregory’s Road), Kurunegala, Mirihana(cleanco), Battaramulla(CEA), Chilaw(CEA), Ambalangoda, Puttalam, 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.