air quality – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk Sri Lanka's largest News aggregator Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:45:05 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.6 https://www.newswire.lk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/favicon.png air quality – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk 32 32 Air quality slightly unhealthy across many areas today https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/21/air-quality-slightly-unhealthy-across-many-areas-today/ Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:45:05 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=219903

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The National Building Research Organization (NBRO) says Sri Lanka’s air quality reached a slightly unhealthy level in most of the cities in the last 24 hours. 

According to the NBRO, air quality has reached a moderate level in Nuwara Eliya, Ratnapura, Embilipitiya, Trincomalee, Mullaitivu, Batticaloa, Kalutara and Hambantota. 

It is forecasted that the air quality level will be between 56 and 120 during the next 24 hours.

The NBRO states this indicates a moderate level in most of the cities, while a slightly unhealthy level in Kandy, Kegalle, Galle, Puttalam, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura and Monaragala. 

The maximum air quality level will be from 8.00 am – 9.00 am and 4.00 pm – 5.00 pm. 

The public is advised to wear face masks whenever possible and to seek immediate medical advice if sensitive individuals experience breathing difficulties. (Newswire)

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Air quality turns unhealthy in several areas https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/20/air-quality-turns-unhealthy-in-several-areas/ Tue, 20 Jan 2026 04:38:48 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=219728

Air quality in many urban areas across Sri Lanka remained at slightly unhealthy levels over the past 24 hours, accordingContinue Reading

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Air quality in many urban areas across Sri Lanka remained at slightly unhealthy levels over the past 24 hours, according to data released by the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO).

Areas such as Colombo, Jaffna, Kandy, Kurunegala, and Galle recorded Sri Lanka Air Quality Index (SL AQI) levels between 104 and 144, primarily due to elevated PM2.5 levels. 

In contrast, Nuwara Eliya, Mullaitivu, Batticaloa, and several southern and eastern towns remained within moderate air quality levels.

NBRO forecasts indicate that slightly unhealthy conditions are expected to continue through the next 24 hours in most cities, with SL AQI values projected to range between 48 and 140. (Newswire)

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Unhealthy Air Quality : AQI tops 100 in several urban areas in SL https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/01/unhealthy-air-quality-aqi-tops-100-in-several-urban-areas-in-sl/ Thu, 01 Jan 2026 09:33:02 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=217282

Sri Lanka’s National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has warned of deteriorating air quality across several urban centres, with the latestContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka’s National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has warned of deteriorating air quality across several urban centres, with the latest readings showing conditions slipping into “slightly unhealthy” levels. 

According to the NBRO, Colombo 07, Vavuniya, Kandy, Kegalle, Galle, Embilipitiya, and Puttalam recorded Air Quality Index (AQI) values above 100 during the past 24 hours.

The situation is forecast to persist over the next 24 hours, with AQI levels ranging between 44 and 112 nationwide. While most cities are expected to remain at moderate levels, Galle and Puttalam are predicted to continue experiencing slightly unhealthy conditions, whereas Nuwara Eliya is likely to enjoy “good” air quality.

Officials have advised residents, particularly sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to wear masks and seek medical attention if they experience breathing difficulties. 

The NBRO also noted that peak pollution hours are expected between 8.00–9.00 a.m. and 4.00–5.00 p.m., urging caution during these times. (Newswire)

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Air Quality reaches slightly unhealthy levels in several areas https://www.newswire.lk/2025/12/29/air-quality-reaches-slightly-unhealthy-levels-in-several-areas/ Mon, 29 Dec 2025 04:05:14 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=216788

Air quality across several urban areas in Sri Lanka reached slightly unhealthy levels over the past 24 hours, according toContinue Reading

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Air quality across several urban areas in Sri Lanka reached slightly unhealthy levels over the past 24 hours, according to the latest data released by the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO). 

Earlier unhealthy levels were recorded in Jaffna and Puttalam, with Air Quality Index (AQI) values reaching 92 and 100 respectively.

Forecasts for the next 24 hours predict AQI levels ranging between 48 and 112 across the country.

While most areas are expected to maintain moderate air quality, Jaffna and Puttalam are projected to experience AQI values between 100–108 and 104–112, placing them in the “slightly unhealthy” category.

Monaragala recorded the best air quality, with an AQI of 46, classified as “good.” 

The highest pollution levels are expected during peak hours between 8:00–10:00 a.m. and 3:00–5:00 p.m.

The AQI is primarily based on PM2.5 levels, which represent fine particulate matter that poses health risks when inhaled. 

Sensitive groups are advised to take precautions, particularly in areas with higher readings. (Newswire)

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Air quality reaches slightly unhealthy levels across Sri Lanka https://www.newswire.lk/2025/11/11/air-quality-reaches-slightly-unhealthy-levels-across-sri-lanka/ Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:08:26 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=210105

The National Building Research Organization (NBRO) reported that air quality in several Sri Lankan cities reached slightly unhealthy levels overContinue Reading

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The National Building Research Organization (NBRO) reported that air quality in several Sri Lankan cities reached slightly unhealthy levels over the past 24 hours, while most other areas remained within the moderate range.

According to the NBRO, unhealthy air quality levels were recorded in Colombo 07, Jaffna, Kandy, Puttalam, Badulla, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura.

The forecast for the next 24 hours indicates that the Air Quality Index (AQI) will range between 44 and 108, with moderate levels expected across most cities.

However, Colombo 07 and Puttalam are likely to continue experiencing slightly unhealthy air quality.

The NBRO also noted that peak AQI levels are anticipated between 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.

The condition is expected to worsen, and individuals with respiratory illnesses may experience breathing difficulties under these conditions. (Newswire)

 

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Air quality slightly unhealthy in 5 cities – NBRO https://www.newswire.lk/2025/03/10/air-quality-slightly-unhealthy-in-5-cities-nbro/ Mon, 10 Mar 2025 10:19:21 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=178568

The air quality in five cities is recorded at slightly unhealthy levels today, the National Building Research Organization (NBRO) said.Continue Reading

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The air quality in five cities is recorded at slightly unhealthy levels today, the National Building Research Organization (NBRO) said.

According to the NBRO, the air quality is recorded at moderate levels in several other parts of Sri Lanka.

The air quality in Galle, Ratnapura, Embilipitiya, Batticaloa, and Anuradhapura is expected to improve from slightly unhealthy levels to moderate levels in the next 24 hours.

The NBRO added that the air quality is also expected to remain between moderate to good levels in other areas during this period. (Newswire)

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Air quality to worsen in two areas today https://www.newswire.lk/2025/02/18/air-quality-to-worsen-in-two-areas-today/ Tue, 18 Feb 2025 05:59:23 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=175613

The National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) says air quality in several areas of Sri Lanka remains moderate today. According toContinue Reading

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The National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) says air quality in several areas of Sri Lanka remains moderate today.

According to the NBRO, the air quality in Ratnapura and Embilipitiya is expected to worsen to slightly unhealthy levels during the day.

The public is requested to seek medical advice if this condition causes breathing difficulties for sensitive individuals. (Newswire)

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Air quality drops to unhealthy levels in some urban areas https://www.newswire.lk/2025/01/28/air-quality-drops-to-unhealthy-levels-in-some-urban-areas/ Tue, 28 Jan 2025 09:57:54 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=172801

The air quality index (SL AQI) in several urban areas remained at moderate levels yesterday, with slight increases to unhealthyContinue Reading

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The air quality index (SL AQI) in several urban areas remained at moderate levels yesterday, with slight increases to unhealthy levels, the National Building Research Organization (NBRO) said.

According to the index, unhealthy levels of air quality were reported in urban areas such as Jaffna, Colombo, Galle, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, and Monaragala.

Due to prevailing weather conditions and cross-border atmospheric disturbances from the northern region, Sri Lanka’s AQI levels are expected to range between 58 and 120 throughout today.

Unhealthy air quality may persist in Jaffna, Colombo, Galle, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura, the NBRO said.

Sensitive groups experiencing breathing difficulties are advised to seek medical attention. Air quality in many other urban areas is expected to remain moderate. Peak SL AQI levels are anticipated between 7:30–8:30 a.m. and 1:00–2:00 p.m. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka’s air quality drops to unhealthy levels in some areas https://www.newswire.lk/2024/12/18/sri-lankas-air-quality-drops-to-unhealthy-levels-in-some-areas/ Wed, 18 Dec 2024 04:05:25 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=168181

Air quality in several areas of Sri Lanka has been reported between unhealthy and moderate as of 09.00 am today,Continue Reading

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Air quality in several areas of Sri Lanka has been reported between unhealthy and moderate as of 09.00 am today, according to the Central Environmental Authority (CEA).

The CEA states that the air quality index in Dambulla, Jaffna, and Mullaitivu has dropped to unhealthy levels.

Air quality in Kurunegala, Colombo, Vavuniya, and Batticaloa has also dropped to moderate levels.

However, the air quality in Nuwara Eliya and Hambantota has returned to normal, the CEA added.

Due to the drop in air quality in some areas, the CEA has advised individuals with health concerns, particularly those sensitive to air pollution, to seek medical attention if they experience breathing difficulties. (Newswire) 

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Sri Lanka’s air quality drops again https://www.newswire.lk/2024/12/09/sri-lankas-air-quality-drops-again/ Mon, 09 Dec 2024 11:46:08 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=167362

Air quality in Sri Lanka has dropped to slightly unhealthy levels in several districts, according to the National Building ResearchContinue Reading

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Air quality in Sri Lanka has dropped to slightly unhealthy levels in several districts, according to the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO).

The Sri Lanka Air Quality Index (AQI) was classified as moderate in most cities, but slightly unhealthy levels were recorded in Jaffna, Kurunegala, Vavuniya, Galle, Badulla, Mullaitivu, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura.

Forecasts indicate that AQI levels will range between 90 and 180 over the next 24 hours, with unhealthy levels expected in Jaffna and Polonnaruwa and slightly unhealthy levels anticipated in most other cities. The conditions were attributed to transboundary air pollution from northern regions, the NBRO said, .

Individuals with health concerns, particularly those sensitive to air pollution, were urged to seek medical attention if they experience breathing difficulties. (Newswire)

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Drop in Colombo air quality – CEA https://www.newswire.lk/2024/12/06/drop-in-colombo-air-quality-cea/ Fri, 06 Dec 2024 04:24:08 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=167080

Air quality in several areas has been recorded as moderate, apart from Colombo, the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) reported.  AsContinue Reading

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Air quality in several areas has been recorded as moderate, apart from Colombo, the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) reported. 

As of 06.00 am today, the air quality index remained between 96 and 106 in Colombo.

The air quality index is expected to remain between 44 and 106 in other areas today.

Compared to the other areas, the air quality in Nuwara Eliya has returned to normal. (Newswire)

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Air quality to improve in several areas – CEA https://www.newswire.lk/2024/12/05/air-quality-to-improve-in-several-areas-cea/ Thu, 05 Dec 2024 04:04:14 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=166995

The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) says air quality is expected to improve further in several areas of Sri Lanka.  IssuingContinue Reading

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The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) says air quality is expected to improve further in several areas of Sri Lanka. 

Issuing a statement, the CEA said the air quality index remained between 44 and 106 as of 06.00 am today. 

However, the air quality in Colombo has dropped slightly with the index remaining between 98-106.

The CEA states air quality in other areas is moderate, while air quality in Nuwara Eliya has returned to normal. (Newswire)

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Air quality to drop in 15 districts today https://www.newswire.lk/2024/12/03/air-quality-to-drop-in-15-districts-today/ Tue, 03 Dec 2024 04:18:38 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=166743

The Central Environment Authority (CEA) warns that air quality in certain areas may worsen today due to the effects ofContinue Reading

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The Central Environment Authority (CEA) warns that air quality in certain areas may worsen today due to the effects of cyclone “FENGAL” and the entry of air pollutants from the North and Transboundary air pollution caused by adverse weather.

The CEA said as such, the air quality index may remain between 86 and 120 in several areas throughout the day. 

The Colombo, Jaffna, Kurunegala, Kandy, Kegalle, Galle, Ratnapura, Puttalam, Badulla, Trincomalee, Mullaitivi, Batticaloa, Kalutara, Polonnaruwa, and Monaragala districts are expected to see a drop in air quality today. 

However, air quality is expected to improve in the Vavuniya, Nuwara Eliya, Embilipitiya, Hambantota, and Anuradhapura districts today. 

As there may be an increase of dust particles in the atmosphere, which is harmful to humans, people with respiratory illnesses are advised to be vigilant and seek medical attention if affected. (Newswire)

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Air quality improving in Sri Lanka : CEA https://www.newswire.lk/2024/12/02/air-quality-improving-in-sri-lanka-cea/ Mon, 02 Dec 2024 08:30:25 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=166690

The Air Quality Index (AQI), which ranged between 100 and 180 in recent days, has decreased to between 100 andContinue Reading

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The Air Quality Index (AQI), which ranged between 100 and 180 in recent days, has decreased to between 100 and 110 as of yesterday, according to the Central Environment Authority (CEA).

CEA Director of Environment Studies and spokesman Ajith Gunawardena addressing a media briefing said the CEA is continuously monitoring air quality levels across Sri Lanka. 

He noted that while AQI readings over the past few days were elevated, they have now dropped to a more moderate range.

Gunawardhane explained that an AQI below 50 is considered healthy, a level Sri Lanka typically records. 

However, readings above 100 can pose some health risks.

Dr. Gunawardena assured the public that the slightly unhealthy air quality levels are temporary and are likely to improve considerably within the next two days.

He added that the CEA, in collaboration with the University of Peradeniya and the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), is monitoring the AQI and will provide updates and follow-up assessments. (Newswire)

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Air quality to drop in 15 districts today – CEA https://www.newswire.lk/2024/11/30/air-quality-to-drop-in-15-districts-today-cea/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 05:35:08 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=166549

The Central Environment Authority (CEA) warns that air quality in certain areas may worsen today due to the influence ofContinue Reading

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The Central Environment Authority (CEA) warns that air quality in certain areas may worsen today due to the influence of Cyclonic Storm “FENGAL” over the Southwest Bay of Bengal.

The CEA said as such, the air quality index may remain between 92 and 120 in several areas throughout the day. 

The Colombo, Jaffna, Vavuniya, Kurunegala, Kandy, Kegalle, Nuwara-Eliya, Ratnapura, Puttalam, Badulla, Trincomalee, Mullaitivi, Batticaloa, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura districts are expected to see a drop in air quality today. 

The drop in air quality is being caused due to the entry of air pollutants from the North and Transboundary air pollution caused as a result of adverse weather conditions.

As there may be an increase of dust particles in the atmosphere, which is harmful to humans, people with respiratory illnesses are advised to be vigilant and seek medical attention if affected. (Newswire)

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Drop in air quality in several parts of Sri Lanka https://www.newswire.lk/2024/11/29/drop-in-air-quality-in-several-parts-of-sri-lanka/ Fri, 29 Nov 2024 11:13:43 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=166523

The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) says the air quality index has risen in several areas of Sri Lanka, including Colombo.Continue Reading

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The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) says the air quality index has risen in several areas of Sri Lanka, including Colombo.

CEA Media Spokesman Prof. Ajith Gunawardena said the prevalent gloomy and dark weather is a result of the inclement weather experienced across the country.

Pointing out that the air quality index of Sri Lanka is generally below the value of 50, he said, however, due to the recent heavy rains, an increase in the index is noted, with weather similar to dust or fog seen in many parts of the nation.

Prof. Ajith Gunawardena revealed that this was a result of the entry of air pollutants from the North and Transboundary air pollution caused due to adverse weather conditions.

Due to this situation, the air quality index has increased to 180 in the Anuradhapura, Jaffna, and Colombo areas, said Prof. Ajith Gunwardena, adding that, however, the air quality index is expected to improve from tomorrow (30 Nov).

Stating that the increase of dust particles in the atmosphere is harmful to humans, he advised people with respiratory illnesses to be vigilant and seek medical attention if affected. (Newswire)

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Public urged to remain cautious of deterioration in air quality in 4 areas https://www.newswire.lk/2024/01/17/public-urged-to-remain-cautious-of-deterioration-in-air-quality-in-4-areas/ Wed, 17 Jan 2024 04:31:15 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=137077

The air quality in several parts of Sri Lanka has deteriorated today, according to the Central Environmental Authority.  Accordingly, theContinue Reading

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The air quality in several parts of Sri Lanka has deteriorated today, according to the Central Environmental Authority. 

Accordingly, the air quality is recorded as unhealthy in the Colombo, Galle, Kurunegala, and Gampaha areas as of 09.30 am today.

The air quality is recorded as unhealthy for sensitive groups in the Anuradhapura, Kandy, Negombo, Mirihana, and Bandarawela areas.

The Central Environmental Authority has urged the public to remain cautious in this regard. (NewsWire/ Pic – IQair)

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