Kataragama Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Kataragama, Monaragala District, Sri Lanka. The numbers reflect climate data gathered over a 30-year period, from 1990 to 2020. Now, let's break down all the details for a clearer picture.
Kataragama experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging 1260 mm (50 in) of precipitation annually. However, this abundant rainfall is not evenly distributed, with a distinct dry and rainy season during certain months. You can clearly see this in our monthly precipitation graphs below.
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. During the wettest month, November receives substantial rainfall, averaging 277 mm (11 in) of precipitation, recorded across 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, July brings less rainfall, with 22 mm (0.9 in) over 7 rainy days.
November, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 31°C (88°F). The city receives 192 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month July you can expect a temperature of 34°C (93°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Kataragama Temperature page.
Daily Historical Precipitation
37-year average (1980-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in June
Explore Kataragama's Historical Precipitation: 1976-2026
Browse day-by-day precipitation records for Kataragama spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual rainfall and snowfall recorded on each day.
Annual Rainfall in Sri Lanka: City Comparison
The map below shows the annual precipitation across Sri Lanka. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.
heavy rainfall
high
moderate
low
almost none
Kataragama vs World: Rainfall Compared
Kataragama's average annual precipitation is 1260 mm (50 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
In Toronto, Canada, annual precipitation averages 964 mm (38 in), with snowy winters and rainy summers.
Meanwhile, Buenos Aires, Argentina, enjoys a humid subtropical climate with 1000 mm (39 in) of annual rainfall, mostly in the summer.
Perth, Australia, receives 565 mm (22 in) of rainfall annually, mostly during the winter months.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, receives 2529 mm (100 in) of annual rainfall, characteristic of its equatorial tropical rainforest climate, with consistent rainfall throughout the year and peak months during March and November.
Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.
Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.
Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Kataragama:
- Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
- Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.
- The U.S. has a significant number of thunderstorms every year, with over 14.6 million taking place across the world annually.
- Approximately 70% of lightning bolts strike land rather than oceans.
- A storm named John was the longest-lasting Pacific tropical storm, continuing for 31 days. As it crossed the dateline twice, it changed status from a hurricane to a typhoon and back to a hurricane.
For more detailed information about Kataragama's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Kataragama Climate page.
