Taiwan braces for cold snap, temps to plunge to 8°C

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — After a temporary rise in temperatures following the weakening of a mainland cold air mass on Monday (Dec. 18), Taiwan is bracing for a stronger cold front expected to arrive on Tuesday, potentially dropping temperatures to as low as 8°C on Thursday and Friday in the plains.

The Central Weather Administration (CWA) reported cooler morning temperatures in northern regions and Yilan, ranging from 14-15°C, with slightly warmer conditions at 16-17°C in the south and eastern areas.

Daytime warming is expected, with highs of 23-24°C in the north, 25-27°C in central and southern areas, and around 21-22°C in the eastern half due to cloud cover.

Brief local showers may occur in Greater Taipei and parts of the eastern half, while other areas will remain mostly clear to cloudy. Due to significant temperature variations in the western half, residents are advised to dress warmly.

The respite in warmer weather will be short-lived, as meteorological experts predict a frontal system on Tuesday, bringing rain to the north.

A more potent cold air mass is forecasted to arrive on Wednesday, potentially meeting the criteria for a cold wave as temperatures could fall to 10-11°C.

Independent meteorologist Daniel Wu warns that the cold spell is expected to peak between Thursday evening and Friday morning, with temperatures around 8°C, potentially making it more intense and enduring than the previous one.

Wu advises that the effects of the new cold front will persist until Saturday morning, resulting in wet and cold conditions in northern Taiwan, while central and southern areas will experience a mix of clouds and clear skies.

Public caution is urged due to the significant weather fluctuations, especially regarding health and staying warm.