Introduction: Taiwan’s Winter Forecast for 2024-2025
Taiwan is expected to face a colder and drier winter in the coming months, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA). The agency has highlighted a 50% chance of La Niña conditions forming, which could bring stronger northern and northeastern winds to the island. As a result, temperatures are projected to be lower than usual, while rainfall is expected to decrease during the winter season.
La Niña Conditions and Their Impact on Taiwan’s Weather
What is La Niña?
La Niña is a weather phenomenon that occurs when the sea surface temperatures in the eastern Pacific Ocean become cooler than normal. This shift can impact global weather patterns, including stronger winds and reduced rainfall in certain regions, such as Taiwan. In the case of Taiwan, La Niña is expected to bring colder temperatures and lower rainfall from December 2024 through February 2025.
Expected Temperature and Rainfall Changes
The CWA predicts that La Niña conditions will lead to slightly lower temperatures across Taiwan in the coming winter months. Additionally, reduced rainfall is expected, especially during the peak of the winter season from December to February. The agency forecasts that conditions will begin to normalize around spring 2025, marking the end of the La Niña influence.
Detailed Weather Forecast: December 2024 – February 2025
Temperature Projections for December 2024
According to the CWA, the average temperatures across different regions of Taiwan in December are expected to be:
| Region | Temperature Range (°C) |
|---|---|
| Northern Taiwan | 17.6°C to 18.9°C |
| Central Taiwan | 18.1°C to 19.3°C |
| Southern Taiwan | 19.0°C to 20.2°C |
| Eastern Taiwan | 19.1°C to 20.1°C |
These projections suggest that temperatures in the north and central regions of Taiwan will be on the cooler side, while the southern and eastern areas will experience relatively milder conditions.
What to Expect in the Short Term
In the short term, Taiwan is experiencing cold conditions that are expected to last through early Saturday, with nighttime temperatures dipping below 10°C. As the weekend progresses, temperatures will rise during the day, but a stronger northeasterly wind will bring a cold air mass back on Dec. 7, causing temperatures to drop again.
Weather Outlook for December 2024
- Cold Weather on the Horizon: As Taiwan faces cold conditions through early December, residents should prepare for chilly nights, especially in the northern and central regions.
- Rainfall Expected in Northern and Eastern Taiwan: While the weather will generally remain sunny island-wide, the north and east will experience increasing chances of rain by Monday evening.
How Will La Niña Affect Taiwan’s Long-Term Weather?
La Niña is expected to bring colder and drier weather conditions until spring 2025, when the climate should return to normal. While there may be brief periods of rain in the north and east, overall, Taiwan’s winter will be marked by a drier-than-usual season, particularly in the central and southern regions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is La Niña, and how does it affect Taiwan’s weather?
La Niña is a phenomenon where cooler sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean affect global weather patterns. In Taiwan, this leads to stronger northern winds and lower temperatures, along with reduced rainfall during the winter months.
2. How cold is Taiwan expected to get in December 2024?
In December, average temperatures are forecast to range between 17.6°C to 20.2°C, depending on the region, with colder temperatures expected in the northern and central parts of Taiwan.
3. Will Taiwan experience more rain this winter?
No, the winter of 2024-2025 is expected to be drier than usual, with reduced rainfall. However, northern and eastern Taiwan may experience increased chances of rain as the month progresses.
4. When will temperatures begin to rise again?
Temperatures are expected to rise gradually starting Saturday, but a cold air mass will bring temperatures back down starting December 5.
5. How long will La Niña conditions last in Taiwan?
La Niña is expected to affect Taiwan’s weather until spring 2025, at which point conditions are forecast to return to normal.
Conclusion: Preparing for a Colder, Drier Winter in Taiwan
Taiwan is gearing up for a colder and drier winter due to the 50% chance of La Niña conditions. The winter months of December to February will bring lower-than-usual temperatures and reduced rainfall, particularly in the northern and central regions. While Taiwan will experience brief periods of cold and rain, overall, residents should prepare for a milder and drier season compared to previous years.
