TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 氣象署) issued a cold surge advisory on Tuesday (Jan. 21), warning residents in Hsinchu County and Miaoli County of cold temperatures through Wednesday morning. The advisory predicts temperatures could dip below 10 degrees Celsius in localized areas, urging residents to stay warm.
Taiwan experienced chilly conditions early Tuesday due to a strong continental cold air mass and radiative cooling, with sporadic showers in the eastern regions. WeatherRisk (天氣風險公司) senior consultant Wu Sheng-yu (吳聖宇) noted that the Taipei Basin recorded a low of 15.6℃ Tuesday morning, falling short of the continental cold air mass threshold. Wu attributed this to the change in wind direction to the east and gusts of 4-5, which reduced the radiative cooling effect.
Wu explained that for significant radiative cooling to occur, the Taipei Basin would need very light winds from the south, allowing cold air from the mountains to flow into the basin. Looking ahead, Wu predicted another wave of strong cold air could move south from Monday to Thursday next week, potentially reaching the intensity of a cold surge or even a cold wave. He advised the public to prepare in advance.
As Taiwan braces for the impending cold, residents should heed expert advice and prepare for potentially severe weather conditions.
