This week’s air quality was generally more moderate compared to the beginning of the month, when Unhealthy AQI levels were recorded in many areas. At present, the prevailing air flow is mainly from the Bay of Bengal, although some polluted air is also being transported with this flow from the northern parts of India and China.

Daily AQI values ranged from Good to Unhealthy. Most areas recorded Moderate AQI levels on most days, while some locations experienced Good air quality and, at times, Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups conditions. Stations such as Puttalam, Chilaw, Jaffna, Trincomalee, and Anuradhapura recorded AQI values exceeding 100 on certain days, whereas stations in the western region generally showed lower AQI values. Notably, Chilaw recorded an AQI value of 155 on 11 December, which falls within the Unhealthy category.

Considering the week as a whole, AQI values ranged from Good to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. Chilaw recorded the highest weekly average AQI value (116), while Digana reported the lowest value (39).

Weekly Air Quality Index (AQI) Levels:

•  Good (AQI  0-50  ): Digana

• Moderate (AQI  51-100  ): Akurana-AV-Outdoor, Kurunegala, Colombo(Gregory Road), Mirihana(Cleanco), Battaramulla(CEA), Ambalantota, Puttalam Trincomalee, Anuradhapura.

• Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (AQI 101-150):  Chilaw(CEA), Jaffna