The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued a heavy rain advisory for northern Taiwan on Thursday, as seasonal northeasterly winds bring increased rainfall and potentially hazardous conditions to the region. Coastal areas of New Taipei and Keelung, as well as the mountainous zones of Taipei, are expected to experience significant rainfall, prompting calls for residents to stay vigilant.
Heavy Rain Forecasted for Northern Taiwan
According to the CWA, the advisory, issued at 10:10 a.m. Thursday, warns that the north of Taiwan is particularly vulnerable to heavy rain. In these areas, rainfall is forecasted to exceed 80 millimeters over a 24-hour period, or 40 millimeters within one hour. The warning covers the Taipei metropolitan area, including nearby cities like New Taipei and Keelung, and extends to Taipei’s mountain areas, where landslides may also pose a risk.
The CWA has cautioned that the continuous heavy rainfall could lead to disruptions, urging people in affected regions to take precautions and stay updated on weather alerts.
Widespread Rain Across Taiwan
In addition to the heavy rain advisory in the north, the seasonal winds are also expected to bring intermittent rain to other parts of the island. Areas such as Greater Taipei, Taoyuan, and parts of central and southeastern Taiwan will see sporadic rainfall. While the western regions, from Miaoli to Tainan, are predicted to have mostly sunny skies, conditions remain unsettled throughout the rest of the country.
Daytime Temperatures and Forecast
As a result of the heavy rain and cloud cover, temperatures in northern Taiwan are expected to stay relatively low, with daytime highs ranging between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius. In contrast, the western regions of Taiwan will enjoy sunnier conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 25 degrees during the day but cooling significantly to below 20 degrees after sunset.
Cold Front Expected to Arrive
Looking ahead, independent meteorologist Wu Der-rong (吳德榮) has warned that northern Taiwan will experience a sharp temperature drop starting Friday afternoon as the strongest cold air mass of the winter season moves southward. The cold front is expected to bring even cooler temperatures, with morning lows in low-lying areas potentially dropping below 10 degrees Celsius from Saturday to Monday.
Residents in northern Taiwan, especially in low-lying areas, are advised to prepare for the chill, with temperatures likely to rebound after Monday.
Weather Summary for the Coming Days:
| Region | Weather Forecast | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Taiwan | Heavy rain, cloudy skies, potential landslides | 16-18°C | Below 10°C (from Friday) |
| Greater Taipei | Intermittent rain | 16-18°C | Below 10°C (from Friday) |
| Central Taiwan | Scattered showers | 20-22°C | 15-18°C |
| Western Taiwan | Mostly sunny | 25°C | Below 20°C (after sunset) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. What is a heavy rain advisory?
A heavy rain advisory is issued when rainfall exceeds certain thresholds that could cause disruptions, including flooding, landslides, or other weather-related hazards. In Taiwan, heavy rain is defined as accumulated rainfall exceeding 80 millimeters over 24 hours or 40 millimeters within one hour.
2. Which areas are most affected by this heavy rain advisory?
The northern parts of Taiwan, including New Taipei, Keelung, and the mountainous areas in Taipei, are most at risk for heavy rain and potential landslides.
3. When is the cold front expected to arrive in Taiwan?
The cold front is expected to arrive by Friday afternoon, bringing a significant drop in temperatures across northern Taiwan, with morning lows potentially dipping below 10°C by Saturday.
4. What should residents do during the heavy rain advisory?
Residents should stay informed about weather updates, avoid travel in heavy rain areas, and be prepared for potential landslides in affected mountainous regions.
5. How long will the cold weather last?
The cold front is expected to last until Monday, with temperatures rebounding afterward. However, low temperatures below 10°C are expected in northern Taiwan for several days.
