TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan braces for volatile weather conditions as the Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) warned Tuesday (June 17) that brief but intense downpours could strike regions north of Taoyuan and across the northeast by afternoon. Meteorologists are monitoring the potential for localized flooding as moisture-laden southwestern winds sweep across the island, creating increasingly unstable atmospheric conditions.
The western portions of Taiwan will likely face scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, according to CWA officials, while eastern regions can expect predominantly cloudy conditions punctuated by brief but potentially powerful afternoon thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures will remain oppressive, reaching between 31 and 33 degrees Celsius (87.8 to 91.4°F), with overnight lows offering little relief at 26 to 27 degrees Celsius (78.8 to 80.6°F). Health officials emphasize that despite the anticipated rainfall, the persistent humidity and heat create dehydration risks for vulnerable populations.
Taiwan's outlying archipelagos will experience slightly milder conditions, with Penghu recording temperatures between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius (80.6 and 86°F), while Kinmen and Matsu — islands situated closer to China's southeastern coast — will see similar ranges from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius (78.8 to 86°F). Maritime authorities have issued advisories for the coastal regions near Hsinchu, where powerful southwestern winds could generate sustained gusts above level 6 or momentary bursts exceeding level 8 on the Beaufort scale, potentially disrupting shipping and fishing operations.
The Central Weather Administration urges residents across Taiwan to prepare contingency plans for rapidly changing weather conditions, particularly emphasizing the dangers associated with flash flooding and wind-related hazards. "Weather patterns could shift with little warning," a CWA spokesperson noted, recommending that those with outdoor commitments monitor official forecasts throughout the day. Tourism operators in popular mountain and coastal destinations have begun implementing precautionary measures, including potential early closures of certain hiking trails and water activities should conditions deteriorate. ◼
