Weekly Air Quality Update for Sri Lanka
20 – 26 April 2026
Summary
During the past week, daily average AQI values remained within the “Good” to “Moderate” categories. The highest daily AQI value of 86 was recorded in Digana on 24th April, which falls under the “Moderate” category.
When considering weekly averages, Akurana, Digana, Colombo (Gregory’s Road), Mirihana, Negombo, Battaramulla (CEA), Chilaw (CEA), Trincomalee, and Jaffna recorded “Moderate” weekly average values, while the other monitored areas recorded “Good” weekly average AQI values. Akurana and Digana recorded the highest weekly average AQI value of 68.
During the past week, air masses continued to influence local air quality, with pollutants showing some rise in specific urban centers during shifts in wind patterns. Overall, the air quality remained relatively stable across the monitored regions compared to the previous week.
Weekly Air Quality Index (AQI) Levels:
- Moderate (AQI 51-100): Akurana, Digana, Colombo (Gregory’s Road), Mirihana (Cleanco), Negombo, Battaramulla (CEA), Chilaw (CEA), Trincomalee, Jaffna.
- Good (AQI 0-50): Nuwara Eliya, Kurunegala, Kalawana, Ambalantota, Mannar, 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.