Heat Wave Peaks Before Cooling Front Arrives Later This Week
Taiwan is set to experience a sharp spike in daytime temperatures on Tuesday, with the Central Weather Administration (CWA) forecasting highs of 36°C or more in multiple regions, including Taipei, New Taipei, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and the eastern county of Taitung, where foehn winds are expected to exacerbate heat conditions. This marks the hottest day of the week and possibly one of the highest temperature events in April so far this year.
Why Is It So Hot?
The main reason behind this heat spike is the influx of warm southwesterly winds. These winds, coupled with a lack of cloud cover and low humidity, are creating ideal conditions for rapid surface heating. In regions like Taitung, the foehn effect—a phenomenon where warm, dry air descends down the leeward side of a mountain range—will lead to even more extreme local temperatures.
According to CWA forecaster Tseng Chao-cheng, the current weather pattern will likely result in the highest daytime temperatures of the week. The areas most at risk include the greater Taipei metropolitan area and southern Taiwan, particularly where urban heat island effects could further drive up real-feel temperatures.
Upcoming Weather Changes: From Sizzle to Showers
While Tuesday may bring scorching heat, it won’t last for long. A seasonal northeasterly wind system is expected to strengthen later in the week, bringing cloud cover, rain showers, and thunderstorms primarily across northern and eastern Taiwan beginning Friday.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect over the next few days:
- Wednesday: Slight cooling, with highs around 30°C across most of Taiwan.
- Thursday: Drop in daytime temperatures to 25–27°C, especially in northern Taiwan.
- Friday: Further cooling, particularly in the north and northeast, where temperatures could dip to 20°C.
- Saturday–Sunday: A gradual return to warmer weather, with daytime highs climbing back to 30°C by Sunday.
These dramatic shifts in temperature are typical of Taiwan’s transitional spring climate, where sudden heat waves are often followed by equally abrupt cold fronts and rainfall.
Health and Safety Advisory
The CWA is also warning of dense fog and poor visibility around Matsu and Kinmen from Tuesday through Wednesday. Travelers to these outlying islands should anticipate flight delays and transportation disruptions.
Meanwhile, the public is advised to:
- Stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon heat.
- Wear light-colored, breathable clothing and use sun protection.
- Monitor elderly and young children, who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
- Pay attention to weather alerts regarding sudden rainstorms or temperature drops.
What This Means for Climate Trends in Taiwan
This spike in temperature is not an isolated incident. Taiwan has seen a noticeable increase in the frequency of unseasonal heat waves in recent years, which climatologists link to the broader impacts of climate change.
“Such heat anomalies in early spring are becoming more common, particularly in urban centers like Taipei, where the urban heat island effect magnifies temperature extremes,” said climate researcher Lin Wei-cheng of Academia Sinica.
This trend poses significant challenges for agriculture, public health, and urban planning, and underscores the need for long-term adaptation policies, including better green infrastructure and heat-resilient urban design.
✅ FAQs
Why is Taiwan so hot in April this year?
The heat is primarily due to southwesterly winds, clear skies, and low humidity, allowing surface temperatures to rise quickly. In some areas, foehn winds are intensifying the heat.
What are foehn winds and how do they affect Taiwan?
Foehn winds are hot, dry winds that descend the leeward side of mountains. In Taiwan, they occur when air crosses the Central Mountain Range, heating up as it descends into Taitung and surrounding areas.
When will the weather cool down?
A seasonal northeasterly wind system will bring cooler temperatures starting Wednesday, with a more significant cooldown expected by Friday.
Are these temperatures dangerous?
Yes, especially for vulnerable groups. The public should take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
How does this relate to climate change?
Rising temperatures and abnormal weather patterns like this heatwave are consistent with long-term climate change trends, which are making extreme weather more frequent in Taiwan.
