TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan faces its most intense cold snap of the winter season Thursday (Dec. 25), with temperatures forecast to plunge to 10 degrees Celsius (50°F) in some areas. Meteorologist Chen Sheng (陳勝) warned on Facebook that the 0-degree Celsius (32°F) line at 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) will approach the northern coast, signaling a significant temperature drop. Weather risk analyst Hsueh Hao-tien (薛皓天) predicted the cold air would intensify into the year's second continental cold front.
Taipei's forecast low will reach 13 degrees Celsius (55.4°F), according to Hsueh. The coldest period will occur from Christmas night through Saturday (Dec. 27) morning, with temperatures potentially reaching the "strong continental cold air mass" level. Temperatures across various regions will range between 11 and 14 degrees Celsius (51.8°F to 57.2°F), with open areas possibly experiencing lows of 10 degrees Celsius (50°F).
The north and northeast will feel particularly chilly due to cloudy skies and intermittent rain, with highs only reaching 15 to 17 degrees Celsius (59°F to 62.6°F), Hsueh stated. Mid-level moisture influx could cause temperatures to drop to around 0 degrees Celsius (32°F) at elevations above 2,000 meters (6,562 feet), increasing the likelihood of ice formation on mountain roads and trails. Snowfall is possible in mountainous areas above 3,000 meters (9,843 feet), prompting authorities to advise snow-viewing visitors to equip vehicles with snow chains.
The cold front will weaken into a northeast monsoon by Saturday (Dec. 27), allowing temperatures in regions north of Hsinchu and Yilan to rise to around 20 degrees Celsius (68°F), according to weather forecasts. Hsueh forecasted a mostly dry New Year's Eve evening, except for brief showers in the northeast and east, allowing revelers to enjoy festivities. Authorities advised the public to take caution to stay warm during outdoor celebrations. ◼
