Climate of the Belihuloya

Climate is one of the major considerable factors in tourism. Because, no outdoor activities like hiking, camping or sightseeing can be done comfortably if an area experiences incessant rainfall or if an area is too hot and arid or experiences winds of strong proportions. However, Pambahinna area lies within the intermediate zone and a narrow band lies between the wet and the dry zones with parameters of rainfall, temperature and winds that are well suited for outdoor recreational activities. This area can be developed for climate treatment and is extremely health – friendly and parallels the health –friendly reputation of the climate in Bandarawela, which is 30 km away from Pambahinna. Moreover, areas in the vicinity of the Belihuloya – Pambahinna area such as Balangoda ,Kalawana, Pelmadulla also have a favorable climate well suited for tourism and outdoor recreational activities.

Rainfall
The annual rainfall in the Belihuloya –Pambahinna area is most similar to that of the dry zone. It will be seen that the area is subject to a minimum rainfall of around 1400 mm per year with a maximum of over 2000 mm per year. The period of June, July and August is generally considered a dry period with rainfall averaging 96 mm per month. The wet period commences in the month of september and peaks in December registering an average rainfall of 267 mm per month. There is a drop in rainfall from January to March (average 144 mm per month) but peaks again during the months of April and May registering an average of 290 mm per month.
An average wind speed of 31 km/h has been recorded during the months of June to september. It checks earth warming, humidity levels and prevents the prevalence of a high air temperature. Although at times winds may appear somewhat gusty it will not impede any recreational activity like hiking, camping or sightseeing. The wind blows in from the north west of the study area. Low humidity and a non-polluted atmosphere with well tolerated temperature levels go to make the air characteristics of this area which is well suited for outdoor activities.

Temperature
The average annual temperature is 26c deg, with a low of 18c deg during the months of December and January. The humidity factor is negligible. Overall, the temperature in the area does not create any discomfort and is well suited foroutdoor recreational activities.