Weekly Air Quality Update for Sri Lanka
15 - 21 December 2025
Summary
From 19–21 December, air quality was poor in Kurunegala, Colombo (Gregory’s Road), Mirihana, Battaramulla (CEA), Chilaw (CEA), Puttalam, Trincomalee, Jaffna, and Anuradhapura. Most locations recorded Unhealthy AQI values between 151 and 200, while some recorded Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups values between 101 and 150. These high pollution levels were caused by polluted air flowing from the northern parts of India through the Bay of Bengal.
Earlier in the week, from 15–18 December, air quality was better. During this time, AQI values mostly stayed between Good (0–50) and Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101–150). The main exception was Chilaw on 15 December, where the AQI reached 152, which is in the Unhealthy (151–200) range.
Looking at the whole week, average weekly AQI values were between Moderate (51–100) and Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101–150). Battaramulla (CEA) had the highest weekly average AQI at 124, while Digana had the lowest at 57.
Weekly Air Quality Index (AQI) Levels:
Moderate (AQI 51-100 ): Akurana-AV-Outdoor, Digana, Kurunegala, Ambalantota
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (AQI 101-150): Colombo Gregory’s Road, Mirihana(Cleanco), Battaramulla(CEA), Chilaw(CEA), Puttalam, Trincomalee, Jaffna, 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.