TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Environment (MOENV, 環境部) has issued an orange alert for Kaohsiung and Pingtung on Friday (Feb. 7), warning that air quality could be unhealthy for sensitive groups.
A cold front sweeping southward has brought northeast winds that may carry minor transboundary pollutants affecting Taiwan and its outlying islands, according to the Taiwan Air Quality Monitoring Network (空氣品質監測網).
The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 氣象署) and monitoring data indicate that the northeast winds' impact will depend on rainfall and the accumulation of upstream pollutants. Stronger winds along the coastal regions from Changhua to Yunlin, Chiayi, and Tainan may stir up surface dust, affecting air quality and visibility.
MOENV forecasts good air quality for Hsinchu, Miaoli, Yilan, Hualien, Taitung, Kinmen, and Penghu. However, northern, central, Yunlin, Chiayi, Tainan, and Matsu regions will experience moderate levels.
As the cold front continues to influence the region on Saturday, pollutants are expected to accumulate in downwind areas, maintaining the orange alert status for Kaohsiung and Pingtung.
Residents in affected areas should monitor air quality updates and take necessary precautions. Authorities advise sensitive groups to limit outdoor activities and stay informed about potential changes in air quality levels.
