TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A fierce weather front swept through northern Taiwan, sparking intense thunderstorms and hail in Taipei and New Taipei City from late Monday night into the early hours of Tuesday (March 4). The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 氣象署) cautioned residents to brace for localized heavy rain, lightning, and strong gusts due to the passing front.
The sudden downpour and hailstorm led to lively discussions among residents, with many taking to social media to post videos. The CWA explained that hail forms similarly to rain, but updrafts can carry condensed water droplets to higher altitudes. When temperatures drop below freezing, these droplets crystallize into hailstones, which fall when updrafts can no longer support their weight.
The Taipei City Government issued a warning late Monday, advising of unstable atmospheric conditions likely to produce severe convective rainfall and gusts exceeding level 6. The CWA further noted that during spring and summer, vigorous convection can lead to notable rainfalls and gusty winds, forming squall line systems, which are key to hail formation.
The weather front's influence will persist until early Wednesday morning, the CWA noted, with potential for strong convective activity. Residents should remain vigilant as these conditions may continue to trigger significant weather events.
