Weekly Air Quality Update for Sri Lanka

16 – 22 March 2026

Summary

During the past week, air quality across Sri Lanka improved compared to previous weeks. Most areas recorded ‘Moderate’ daily average AQI levels, while locations such as Ambalantota, Mannar, Trincomalee, and Jaffna experienced ‘Good’ air quality on several days.

However, on 20 March, Akurana, Negombo, and Chilaw recorded ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ AQI levels.

Air masses entered Sri Lanka from both eastern and southeastern directions at different times during the week, contributing to generally cleaner conditions. In addition, there was polluted air coming from the Arabian Seas which resulted in some pollution from Puttalam to Kalutara coastal areas.

For weekly averages, Mannar and Jaffna recorded ‘Good’ AQI levels, while other monitored locations remained at ‘Moderate’ levels.

Weekly Air Quality Index (AQI) Levels:

Moderate (AQI 51-100): Akurana, Digana, Nuwara Eliya, Kurunegala, Colombo, Mirihana, Negombo, Battaramulla, Chilaw, Kalawana, Ambalantota, Trincomalee, Anuradhapura
Good (AQI 0-50): Mannar, Jaffna

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

The AQ variation at a fine temporal scale is shown in Colombo and Pelawatte for the last three days. The peak value in Colombo was about 90, and in Pelawatte was about 150.

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.