Weekly Air Quality Update for Sri Lanka
02 - 08 February 2026
Summary
On 7 February and 8 February, “Unhealthy” daily AQI values were recorded in several locations including Akurana, Digana, Kurunegala, Mirihana, Negombo, Chilaw, Battaramulla, Mannar, Trincomalee, Jaffna and Anuradhapura, with the highest pollution observed on 8 February. Jaffna recorded a “Very Unhealthy” AQI value (292) on 7 February. During most of the remaining days of the week, many locations recorded “Moderate” to “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” daily AQI values. This polluted air mass entered Sri Lanka from the northeast via the Bay of Bengal, originating from the Indian region.
Throughout the week, daily AQI values ranged from “Moderate” to “Unhealthy.” Higher pollution levels were mainly observed in the Northern and North-Central regions, and the deterioration toward the end of the week suggests increased pollution accumulation and transport over the country. Weekly average AQI levels ranged from “Moderate” to “Unhealthy.”
Weekly Air Quality Index (AQI) Levels:
- Unhealthy (AQI 151-200): Jaffna
- Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (AQI 101–150): Akurana-AV-Outdoor, Colombo(Gregory’s Road), Mirihana(cleanco), Battaramulla(CEA), Chilaw(CEA), Mannar, Trincomalee, Anuradhapura
- Moderate (AQI 101–150): Digana, Bandarawela, Kurunegala, Negombo, Kalawana, Ambalantota
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.