Weekly Air Quality Update for Sri Lanka
13 – 19 October 2025
Summary
During this week, overall air quality across most regions of Sri Lanka remained within Good to Moderate levels. Colombo experienced the poorest conditions of the week with a peak AQI of 71, indicating a period of increased particulate matter. However, conditions improved steadily towards the latter part of the week, with many locations returning to cleaner air.
The highest weekly AQI was recorded in Colombo (71), while Kurunegala and Anuradhapura reported some of the lowest weekly AQI values, dropping to the low 30s, reflecting relatively cleaner air in northern regions.
Summary for 13 – 19 October 2025:
Air Quality Index (AQI) levels were as follows:
- Moderate (AQI 51–100): Akurana, Digana, Colombo (Gregory’s Road), Mirihana, Battaramulla (Pelawatta), Chilaw, Ambalangoda.
The highest weekly AQI of 61 was observed in Akurana, while Anuradhapura reported the lowest weekly AQI of 31.
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.