Taiwan is set to experience a significant shift in weather patterns starting Friday night, as a frontal system moves in, bringing widespread rainfall and cooler temperatures over the Mother’s Day weekend. This change marks the onset of the “plum rain” season, a period characterized by increased precipitation and fluctuating temperatures.
🌧️ Weather Forecast Overview
Friday Night to Saturday:
The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued heavy rain advisories for the Greater Taipei area, northeast Taiwan, and mountainous regions in Hualien and Nantou. Widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected across the island on Saturday as the frontal system advances.
Sunday:
As the front passes over Taiwan, the associated rainband will gradually shift southward, bringing a higher chance of showers or thunderstorms to central, southern, and southeastern Taiwan. Other regions may experience brief, scattered showers or thunderstorms.
Monday:
The front will move to the Bashi Channel, but moisture from the system will still affect southern and southeastern Taiwan, with some regions likely to experience brief showers, thunderstorms, or heavy rainfall.
Tuesday Onwards:
Starting Tuesday, most areas will see partly cloudy to sunny skies as ambient moisture decreases, with only brief, isolated showers expected in mountainous regions during the afternoon.
🌡️ Temperature Trends
The frontal system will bring cooler weather over the weekend:
- Saturday Highs:
- Northern Taiwan and Yilan: 24–26°C
- Central and Southern Taiwan: 26–28°C
- Eastern Taiwan: 26°C
- Sunday Highs:
- Central and Northern Taiwan, Yilan, and Hualien: 21–23°C
- Taitung and Southern Taiwan: 24–26°C
Due to a significant decrease in moisture in central and northern Taiwan, as well as in Yilan and Hualien, daytime highs may return to around 28°C on Monday.
🌸 Understanding the Plum Rain Season
The “plum rain” season, known locally as “Meiyu,” typically occurs from May to June in Taiwan. This period is characterized by frequent, heavy rainfall and is crucial for replenishing water resources. However, it can also lead to flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
🧳 Travel and Safety Tips
- Stay Informed: Regularly check weather updates from the CWA.
- Prepare for Rain: Carry umbrellas or raincoats when venturing outdoors.
- Travel Cautiously: Be aware of potential road closures or delays due to heavy rain.
- Health Precautions: Dress appropriately to avoid catching colds in cooler temperatures.
📌 FAQs
What is the plum rain season?
The plum rain season is a period of increased rainfall in Taiwan, typically from May to June, essential for water resources but can cause flooding.
How long will the current weather pattern last?
The frontal system is expected to affect Taiwan from Friday night through Monday, with conditions improving from Tuesday onwards.
Will temperatures remain low after the weekend?
Temperatures are expected to rise gradually starting Monday, returning to typical May averages.
