Taiwan Weather Outlook: Cold Front Arrives, Snow Expected in the Mountains
A significant cold front will sweep across Taiwan starting Friday evening, with temperatures set to drop sharply in northern and northeastern parts of the country, including Kinmen and Matsu Islands. According to the latest forecast from the Central Weather Bureau (CWB), areas above 3,000 meters in elevation may experience snowfall by Monday.
This cold air mass is expected to bring rain and chilly winds to much of Taiwan, especially the northern regions, making it feel colder than usual for December. Residents of affected areas are advised to prepare for a drop in temperatures and possible weather disruptions over the weekend.
Key Weather Changes: Cold Snap and Snowfall Expected
Starting on Friday night, temperatures across northern and northeastern Taiwan, as well as the outlying islands of Kinmen and Matsu, will drop as the cold air moves in from the north. By Saturday, the cold front will further affect central and southern Taiwan.
The CWB also mentioned that snowfall is possible in Taiwan’s higher elevations, particularly over mountainous regions above 3,000 meters. Drivers traveling through these areas, especially on the mountain roads, should be cautious as icy conditions are expected in the early morning hours.
Rain and Strong Winds from the Northeast Monsoon
In addition to the drop in temperatures, the northeast monsoon will bring rainy conditions to the northern and eastern parts of Taiwan. The CWB predicts prolonged rainfall, especially along the northern coast of Keelung and the mountainous areas of Taipei. Localized heavy showers are likely, causing potential disruptions to outdoor plans.
Temperature Forecast for Friday and Saturday
Here is a summary of the expected temperatures across Taiwan, based on the CWB’s latest forecast:
| Region | Daytime Highs (°C) | Nighttime Lows (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Northern & Northeastern Taiwan | 18-20 | 14-15 |
| Matsu Islands | 13-15 | 15-16 |
| Kinmen | 15-16 | 16-17 |
| Central Taiwan & Hualien | 22-24 | 16-19 |
| Southern Taiwan & Taitung | 25-26 | 18-21 |
| Penghu Islands | 18-21 | 16-18 |
Detailed Outlook for Monday: Snowfall in the Mountains
As temperatures continue to drop throughout the weekend, the cold mass is expected to persist until Monday. The most notable weather event will be the potential snowfall in areas above 3,000 meters, including Taiwan’s highest peaks. The CWB recommends that mountaineers and travelers to high-altitude areas prepare for winter conditions, including slippery roads and freezing temperatures in the early morning hours.
FAQ Section:
- Will it snow in Taiwan’s cities?
Snow is only expected in mountainous areas above 3,000 meters, so major cities like Taipei will not see snow. However, rain and cold weather will affect these areas. - How cold will it get this weekend?
Temperatures in northern and northeastern Taiwan will drop to around 14-15°C at night, with daytime highs ranging from 18-20°C. - Are there any weather warnings for driving?
Yes, icy conditions are expected at higher elevations, so travelers heading to mountain roads should exercise caution, especially on Saturday morning. - What is the impact of the northeast monsoon?
The northeast monsoon will bring prolonged rainfall to northern and eastern Taiwan, with the possibility of localized heavy showers and strong winds. - How long will the cold front last?
The cold air mass will persist through Saturday and is expected to linger until Monday, with temperatures slowly rising afterward.
