El Niño development raises strong typhoon probability for Taiwan, weather agency says

Taiwan's Central Weather Administration (CWA) anticipates a heightened risk of strong typhoons developing in the latter half of the year, attributing this to the ongoing development of El Niño conditions. Sea surface temperatures in the tropical western Pacific have been steadily rising, creating an environment conducive to more intense storm formation.

While the total number of typhoons forming in the western Pacific is projected to be normal to slightly below normal, the CWA forecasts that 3 to 5 typhoons will approach Taiwan, which falls within the typical range. However, El Niño's influence may lead to typhoons forming further east, potentially allowing them more time over the ocean to strengthen into powerful storms.

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From the East Pacific being cold at the beginning of the year to now rapidly warming, it is currently showing a trend of El Niño development and may continue until next spring.

In response to increasing coastal activity and potential hazards, the CWA is introducing a new 'giant wave warning' service. This alert will be activated during typhoon warnings when waves are expected to exceed 6 meters, aiming to prevent accidents by advising the public to avoid dangerous coastal areas. The administration also forecasts normal to above-normal temperatures and rainfall for Taiwan between July and September.

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Due to the significant development of El Niño, typhoons will develop in more easterly locations, farther from the East Asian landmass, allowing for longer periods of strengthening and development over the sea, with a higher probability of strong typhoons.