# Air Quality Drops to Unhealthy Levels in Sri Lanka

- Link: https://www.weather.lk/air-quality-drops-to-unhealthy-levels-for-sensitive-groups-in-sri-lanka/
- Published: 2025-12-25T10:28:20+05:30
- Author: Weather LK

Air quality in multiple parts of Sri Lanka has deteriorated to levels considered
unhealthy for sensitive groups, according to environmental authorities.

The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) reported that the Air Quality Index (AQI)
in the Northern, North Central, North Western, and Western provinces has risen to
values between **150 and 200**, indicating poor air conditions. CEA Media Spokesperson**
Dr. Ajith Gunawardena** said the decline has been noticeable over the past few days
and has intensified during the last 24 hours.

Health experts warn that such air quality levels may pose risks to vulnerable groups,
including children, the elderly, and individuals with asthma or other respiratory
illnesses. Members of the public experiencing breathing discomfort, coughing, or
chest tightness have been advised to seek medical care without delay.

Dr. Gunawardena explained that the situation is largely influenced by **transboundary
air pollution**, combined with weather patterns associated with the **active northeastern
monsoon**, which restricts the natural dispersion of pollutants. He added that local
human activities are also significantly contributing to the problem.

“Open burning of waste, vehicle exhaust emissions, and industrial activities are
major sources of air pollution,” he said, urging the public to avoid burning garbage,
plastics, polythene, and other harmful materials.

Meanwhile, air quality across many other regions of the country remains **slightly
unhealthy**, based on real-time AQI readings. Areas such as **Kaduruwela, Chilaw,
Akaragama, Wanduragala, Digana, Madampagama, Hungama, Akkaraipattu, Kalawana, Mulliyawalai,
Pannankandy, Adampan, Uppuveli**, as well as parts of **Jaffna and Colombo**, have
recorded elevated pollution levels.

A senior official from the **National Building Research Organisation (NBRO)** stated
that the current decline is primarily due to local pollution sources combined with
atmospheric conditions that prevent pollutants from dispersing effectively.

According to the NBRO, these air quality conditions are likely to continue **until
around March next year**, unless there is a significant change in weather patterns.

Authorities confirmed that air quality is being closely monitored nationwide, and
the public is encouraged to take precautionary measures, particularly those belonging
to high-risk groups.