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Taiwan’s weather fluctuates; cold air to recede by New Year
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued cold advisories for multiple counties and cities in response to dropping temperatures in Taiwan. The whole island experienced chilly weather, with temperatures ranging from 11 to 14 degrees Celsius. Some areas, including Hsinchu, Yilan, and Hualien, prepared for temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) predicts brief spells of rain in northern and eastern Taiwan, as well as mountainous regions in the central and southern parts of the island. Some low-lying areas may also experience occasional light rain. Mount Hehuan, Xueshan, and Mount Nanhu, all above 3,000 meters, are expected to have subzero temperatures and a high chance of snowfall. However, no further strong cold air influence is expected before the New Year. Starting next Tuesday, the cold air will gradually recede, leading to clear skies and a gradual increase in temperatures. Climate expert Chia Hsin-hsing emphasized the unpredictability of the New Year’s weather and advised the public to stay updated with the latest forecasts.
2023/12/23 10:26
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DPP calls for investigation into Ko’s alleged land misuse
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je is facing allegations of illegal usage of farmland in Hsinchu, which has sparked controversy. Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) spokesman Cho Kuan-ting claimed on Facebook that industrial waste, including bricks, cement, and steel bars, was found during the excavation of the farmland’s parking lot. He called for a legal investigation and urged Hsinchu Mayor Ann Kao to take Ko Wen-je into custody. The Hsinchu City Government confirmed that the farmland, owned by Ko, was not being used for farming and demanded modifications within 30 days. Ko admitted that the farmland had been used as a parking lot for tour buses without proper authorization for the past two years. He pledged to pay the income tax owed and donate the parking lot’s earnings. Ko also sought assistance from TPP legislator-at-large nominee Huang Kuo-chang to handle the issue legally. Cho accused Ko of knowingly violating the law and emphasized that he should take responsibility for the damaged farmland. The allegations against Ko may have implications for his presidential campaign.
2023/12/22 17:35
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Intensifying cold weather sweeps Taiwan
Cold weather is intensifying across Taiwan, with increased rainfall in the northern and eastern regions. Temperatures are dropping below 10 degrees Celsius in areas north of Chiayi, with the lowest temperature recorded at 6.7 degrees Celsius in the Yangmei District of Taoyuan City. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued a cold weather warning, predicting temperatures below 6 degrees in New Taipei City, Taoyuan, and Hsinchu. The warning also covers Keelung, Taipei, Yilan County, and Kinmen County for sustained temperatures around 10 degrees or lower, and Lienchiang County for temperatures around 6 degrees or lower. High-altitude areas above 3,000 meters, such as Mount Hehuan, Xueshan, and Mount Nanhu, are experiencing freezing temperatures and a high chance of snowfall. The cold air is expected to slightly weaken from Saturday afternoon until Sunday, with brief local showers expected in the northern and eastern regions and brief rainfalls in mountainous areas of central and southern Taiwan. No severe cold fronts are expected to affect New Year’s Eve.
2023/12/22 12:34
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Ko Wen-je illegally rented farmland: Hsinchu requires action
The Hsinchu City Government has confirmed that a farmland owned by Taiwan People’s Party presidential candidate Ko Wen-je in Hsinchu has been rented out as a parking lot for tour buses. The government has given a 30-day deadline for improvements to be made. Ko has stated that he has contacted other landlords and businesses for car relocation and hopes the land can be restored to its original condition. An inspection has revealed that the farmland is being partially used for non-agricultural purposes. The authorities are demanding correction and restoration for agricultural use within 30 days, with potential fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000 if not complied with. The Hsinchu City Government is also investigating whether income tax has been paid on the rent collected from the land.
2023/12/21 15:04
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CWA issues low-temperature warning for four regions
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued a low-temperature warning for Keelung, New Taipei, Hsinchu County, and Taoyuan. The forecast predicts temperatures to drop below six degrees Celsius due to a passing cold wave. Tomorrow morning, the north of Taiwan will experience temperatures between 11 to 13 degrees, while central and southern regions will be at 13 to 15 degrees. The East Longitudinal Valley region will see temperatures between 15 to 17 degrees, with extreme lows possibly reaching one or two degrees. Northern regions, including Yilan, are expected to have lows of 9 to 11 degrees, while other areas will be at 12 to 14 degrees. Despite a weakening cold front on Saturday, regions will remain relatively cold. However, Meteorologist Wu Te-jung predicts that the cold will ease by next Tuesday into Wednesday, with temperatures rebounding and sunny weather.
2023/12/21 14:55
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Taipei braces for cold wave, snow in high mountains forecast
A meteorologist predicts a cold front will bring lower temperatures and possible snowfall in high mountain areas of Taiwan. Temperatures in Taipei could drop to 9.5 degrees Celsius, meeting the standard for a cold wave. Areas north of Miaoli County and the Huadong Valley may see temperatures below 8 degrees Celsius. The weather in areas north of Hsinchu and in Yilan will be damp and cold throughout the day. Snowfall is expected in Taipingshan, Lala Mountain, and Shei-Pa National Park, with Yangmingshan possibly experiencing sleet or rain mixed with snow. Mountains over 3,000 meters above sea level in areas north of Taoyuan and at the border of Yilan and Hualien counties may also see snowfall.
2023/12/20 17:29
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Taiwan issues heavy rain advisory for northern cities
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued a heavy rain advisory for Taipei City, New Taipei City, and Keelung City in Taiwan, warning of potential intensive downpours throughout the evening. The northeast monsoon is causing localized heavy rainfall in coastal areas of Keelung and mountainous regions of Taipei. The strengthening of the northeast monsoon has also prompted alerts for strong gusts ranging from force 9 to 11, potentially affecting areas from Taoyuan City to Tainan City, as well as southeastern parts of the island, including Orchid Island, Green Island, and the Hengchun Peninsula. The advisory for strong winds covers an expansive area, including Taoyuan City, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Miaoli County, Taichung City, Changhua County, Yunlin County, Chiayi County, Tainan City, the Hengchun Peninsula, Taitung County, Orchid Island, Green Island, Penghu County, and the Kinmen and Matsu region. These strong wind conditions are expected to last from the early morning of Wednesday (Dec. 20) through the evening of Friday (Dec. 22).
2023/12/20 15:44
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Tsai endorses DPP duo Lai and Hsiao for Taiwan’s stability
President Tsai Ing-wen endorses DPP presidential and vice presidential candidates Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim as implementers of her diplomatic and defense policy, known as the "Tsai Ing-wen approach," emphasizing stability, robustness, and trustworthiness. During a campaign event in Hsinchu County, Tsai also supports DPP Legislative Yuan candidates Chan Chi-ti and Tseng Sheng-kai, while hinting at a potential return to teaching after her presidency. Tsai highlights past projects in Hsinchu, such as the NT$2.9 billion investment in a pipeline connecting Shihmen Reservoir to Hsinchu, ensuring the high-tech industry’s resilience during droughts. She played a key role in the infrastructure upgrades, including the groundbreaking ceremony for the pipeline project. Despite opposition obstruction, the "Forward-looking Infrastructure Development Program," with a budget of NT$840 billion, was passed with DPP’s majority support. The Executive Yuan is expected to approve over NT$100 billion in funding for infrastructure projects, including extending the Wugu-Yangmei Elevated Road to Hsinchu and Toufen, and creating underground railways in Taoyuan. Tsai emphasizes the need for a parliamentary majority and urges public support for DPP’s legislative nominees.
2023/12/19 10:04
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Frost hits Mt. Jade North Peak at minus 4.2°C
Frost observed on Mount Jade North Peak in Nantou County’s Xinyi Township, with temperatures dropping to -4.2 degrees Celsius. The Central Weather Administration explains that the freezing temperatures caused moisture near the ground to freeze, resulting in the formation of frost. In other parts of Taiwan, temperatures hovered around 11.5 to 11.7 degrees Celsius in Sanwan Township, Miaoli County, and Guanxi Township, Hsinchu County, respectively. However, other regions experienced a slight increase in temperature, with lows rising above 13 degrees Celsius.
2023/12/18 10:02
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KMT Chairman Chu predicts major gains in legislative seats
Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Eric Chu expressed optimism about the nomination of the Hou-Jaw ticket, stating that it has boosted party morale and is projected to increase the party’s number of legislative constituencies by more than ten. Chu estimated that the KMT is likely to secure 14 to 15 legislator-at-large seats, which would give them an absolute majority in the Legislative Yuan. He highlighted the stable political landscape in the Taipei-Keelung area, the advantage in the Taoyuan-Hsinchu-Miaoli area, and potential progress in the southern regions, including Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Pintung. Chu also mentioned the strong performance of Mayor Chang San-cheng in Taoyuan and the popularity of former legislator Li Yen-hsiu in Taipei’s 4th election district. Despite criticism over the presence of second-generation officials on the KMT legislator-at-large list, Chu defended their selection, citing their substantial contributions to the public and their professions.
2023/12/12 18:18
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Weather shift to bring comfortable warmth in Taiwan: CWA
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has announced that Taiwan will experience sunny to cloudy conditions with noticeable radiational cooling in the early morning, resulting in a cold start to the day. The temperature difference between day and night in the northern parts of the country is expected to exceed 10 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperature recorded this morning was 11.6 degrees Celsius at Liyu Lake, Hualien. Other regions, including Daxi District in Taoyuan, Guanxi Township in Hsinchu, Xihu Township in Miaoli, and Lunbei Township in Yunlin, also experienced temperatures below 13 degrees Celsius. During the day, temperatures are projected to rebound swiftly, with highs between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius in the northern and eastern parts of Taiwan, and 28 to 29 degrees Celsius in the central and southern parts. From Saturday to Monday, the CWA predicts a shift in winds from easterlies to southerlies, leading to a general increase in temperature across the country. This change will bring mostly sunny to cloudy weather and comfortable warmth. By next Tuesday, a rapidly passing frontal system, along with a strengthened northeast monsoon, will bring a slight dip in temperatures. The northern and northeastern parts of the country will have a cooler day with brief, localized showers, while changes in weather for other regions will be minimal. Starting next Wednesday, clear and sunny skies are expected to return to the entirety of Taiwan.
2023/12/08 17:14
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Hsinchu Fire Bureau calendar honors heroes, teaches safety
The Hsinchu City Fire Bureau unveils its 2024 Firefighting Calendar featuring 22 local firefighters and volunteer firefighters as representatives. The calendar showcases the courage and dedication of these heroes, who were photographed at scenic spots in Hsinchu City. Commissioner Lee Shi-kung emphasizes the impressive physiques and professional rescue capabilities of the chosen representatives, aiming to portray the professional image of the fire service personnel. Hsinchu City residents have the chance to participate in a disaster prevention quiz, with 2,500 lucky winners receiving a copy of the calendar, promoting public safety and awareness.
2023/12/07 20:20
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Taiwan sees third lowest November rainfall days since 1951
Taiwan experienced its third lowest average rainfall days for November since records began in 1951, with only 5.9 rainy days last month, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA). The CWA’s climate review highlighted fluctuating cold and warm temperatures, with isolated showers occurring mainly on the windward sides of the eastern and northern parts of Taiwan. The average monthly temperature was normal at 23.0 degrees Celsius, slightly above the climate average of 22.7 degrees. Taiwan’s cumulative rainfall also fell well below the climatic average of 110.6 millimeters, with only Keelung reaching 90% of its climatic value for rainfall. The Taitung, Pengjia Islet, Hsinchu, and Hengchun stations all reported record lows or near-record lows for rainy days in November. This data from the CWA highlights the variability of precipitation patterns and their potential impact on the region’s climate.
2023/12/06 20:28
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Taipei tops happiness index, Chiayi City close second
Taipei City has been crowned the champion of happiness in Taiwan, according to the "2023 County and City Happiness Index Survey" conducted by the Economic Daily News and Cathay Life Insurance. Chiayi City secured the runner-up position, followed closely by Taichung City, Hsinchu City, and Taitung County. Taichung City also received the "Most Improved Award" for achieving the highest government satisfaction rating in Taiwan. The survey, which questioned over 15,260 Taiwanese aged 20 and up, was conducted from Aug. 24 to Oct. 16, 2023.
2023/12/02 15:10
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Northeast monsoon brings rain to Keelung, Greater Taipei
The Central Weather Administration has issued a heavy rain advisory for Keelung City and New Taipei City due to the influence of the northeast monsoon. However, rain chances are expected to decrease as the day progresses. Meanwhile, conditions south of Hsinchu will remain mostly cloudy to sunny. Temperature variations are significant, with morning and evening lows ranging from 16 to 19 degrees Celsius, and daytime highs anticipated to reach 21 to 24 degrees in the north and Yilan, and 26 to 28 degrees in other areas. Starting Monday, a drier northeast monsoon will bring cooler air, resulting in clearer skies in the western part of the country and a halt in brief rain in the east. Stable and sunny conditions are predicted across the region, but residents should be mindful of the substantial temperature differences between day and night, with low temperatures potentially falling to around 12 degrees across the plains of Taiwan and lows near 16 degrees in Taipei.
2023/11/26 14:41
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Fuyuan Peanut Butter denies exceeding Aflatoxin levels
Fuyuan Peanut Butter, based in Hsinchu, has denied allegations made by the Hong Kong Consumer Council that its products contained excessive levels of Aflatoxin. The company clarified that the tested products were expired and argued that the allegations have caused significant damage to its reputation. Fuyuan Peanut Butter emphasized that its products are freshly made without preservatives and have a three-month shelf life. In a separate test conducted by the Hsinchu City Public Health Bureau, Fuyuan Peanut Butter, along with its Sichuan-style peanut sauce and Peanut Butter with Deep Ocean Salt, were found to have Aflatoxin, Aflatoxin B1, and Ochratoxin A levels within the regulated limits. The company remains committed to upholding the highest quality and safety standards for its consumers.
2023/11/19 16:08
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Ko is the main force splitting KMT votes: Yao Li-ming
The story discusses the role of Ko Wen-je, chairman of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), in splitting the Kuomintang (KMT) votes since the 2018 Taipei Mayoral election. Yao Li-ming, campaign director for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential hopeful Lai Ching-te, claims that the DPP’s decision to nominate Pasuya Yao for the mayoral race was a strategic move to distinguish themselves from Ko. Yao also highlights how Ko has shifted his focus away from securing the green camp’s vote in the 2022 election. Additionally, Yao argues that the KMT and TPP cannot form a union due to their differing natures and suggests that the potential candidacy of Foxconn founder Terry Gou has a greater impact on Ko and Hou than on Lai.
2023/11/13 15:34
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Legislature urges military to integrate firearms in drills
Taiwan’s annual Han Kuang exercises, the country’s largest war games since 1984, aim to ensure combat readiness in the event of a Chinese invasion. Recent exercises have led the military to speculate that the northern areas of Taiwan could be a targeted point for a Chinese attack. The Tamsui River is analyzed as a potential point of entry for the People’s Liberation Army, as it provides access to critical regions like Hsinchu, Taoyuan, and Taipei. Public officials have demanded live-fire drills at the river mouth to inspect defense capabilities. However, conducting such drills poses challenges due to the densely populated area and existing operations of a nearby port. The use of explosives in the river could leave sediments that are difficult to track. Defense strategies require a comprehensive understanding of their effects, and alternative strategies are being considered to bolster defense in northern Taiwan.
2023/11/13 12:49
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THSR adds extra train for Coldplay concert fans in Taiwan
Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) will add an additional northbound train on Sunday night (Nov. 12) to accommodate Coldplay fans attending the band’s performances at Kaohsiung National Stadium on Nov. 11 and 12. The train will depart from Zuoying Station at 10:30 p.m. and arrive at Taipei Station at 12:30 a.m., making stops at Tainan, Chiayi, Taichung, Hsinchu, Taoyuan, and Banqiao stations. Tickets will be sold at 00:00 am on Nov. 11, and THSR advises travelers to plan their onward travel accordingly. Tickets can be booked through the T-EX mobile ticketing app, THSR’s online booking system, convenience stores, or train stations. Non-reserved seat tickets can also be purchased on the day of travel.
2023/11/10 22:25
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Schools banning ’carrot knife’ toy due to safety concerns
Four regional governments in Taiwan, including Yunlin County, Keelung City, Hsinchu County, Miaoli County, and Taichung City, have banned the popular toy knife known as the "carrot knife" from schools due to safety concerns. The toy, originally from mainland China, gained popularity among Taiwanese students through social media platforms like TikTok and Xiaohongshu. The ban is primarily due to the pointed tip on the front end of the plastic retractable toy, which is seen as potentially dangerous. Taipei City and New Taipei City advise students not to bring the toys to school, while other municipalities require schools to enhance safety management and provide safety education.
2023/11/02 21:11
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Cooler temperatures in Northern Taiwan through Tuesday
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) reported that the northeast monsoon and rain from South China on October 28 brought cloud coverage and sporadic showers to Taiwan. Temperatures in northern Taiwan ranged from 20-22 degrees Celsius for the lows and 23-25 degrees for the highs, while other regions saw temperatures between 21-24 degrees. The Matsu Islands had the lowest temperature of 16.8 degrees, while Qidu District, Keelung City, and Guanxi Township, Hsinchu County recorded lows of 19.2 and 19.5 degrees, respectively. The cool weather in the northern and northeastern regions is expected to continue through Sunday and Monday due to the northeast monsoon. From Tuesday to Thursday, temperatures are forecasted to gradually rise with less rain, mainly in the north and east, while the Hengchun Peninsula will continue to experience rain. Next Friday to Sunday, Taiwan can expect cloudy to sunny conditions, with isolated showers at night in eastern regions and along Keelung’s north coast.
2023/10/28 14:22
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TSMC withdrawal fails to ease Longtan residents concerns
Longtan residents gathered at the Hsinchu Science Park Administration to demand updates on the stalled expansion project, despite TSMC’s recent withdrawal from building a fabrication plant in the area. With continued concerns over land seizure and community upheaval, locals are urging the administration to reconsider its plans.
2023/10/19 17:06
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Sinkhole appears at Hsinchu construction site for 3rd time
A sinkhole appeared for the third time within three days at a construction site in Hsinchu County. The sinkhole, measuring 2 meters wide and long, continued to expand, causing concern among locals as it was dangerously close to residential areas. Initial assessments by local authorities suggest that soil erosion caused by debris influx was the cause of the collapse. This incident was similar to the previous two collapses, with the first one causing gas and water leaks and the site already experiencing lateral groove ruptures.
2023/10/18 13:21
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Government reassures support for TSMC’s Longtan expansion
TSMC’s plans for expansion in Longtan District may be put on hold due to opposition from local residents. Despite this, the government has stated that it will support TSMC even if the expansion plans are abandoned.
2023/10/16 21:55
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Ex-PLG basketball player faces deportation over expired visa
Nigerian basketball player Ifeanyi Uzoma Eboka has been detained by Taiwan’s National Immigration Agency for an expired residency visa. Eboka, known for his time with the PLG Hsinchu Lioneers, is now facing forced deportation.
2023/10/16 15:57