Heavy Rain Drenches Hsinchu International Kite Festival, Grounding Kites

The Hsinchu International Kite Festival faced a dramatic turn of weather Saturday afternoon. After a sunny morning with gentle breezes, the skies opened up with heavy rain and thunder just as Mayor Kao Hung-an began her opening speech. Attendees were caught off guard, with many scrambling for shelter under tents or using umbrellas, while others were drenched.

The sudden downpour also grounded the festival's main attraction. Kites that had been successfully launched earlier in the day were reeled in and lay flat on the ground, creating an unusual scene. Vendors also expressed dismay as the rain significantly impacted their business, with many fearing unsold inventory.

City officials from the Department of Economic Development acknowledged the weather disruption, citing strong convective clouds and a shift in wind direction. They noted that the wind conditions were expected to improve by around 5 p.m. as the wind shifted to a southerly direction. The department assured that kite teams would resume their performances once conditions allowed.

Despite the weather challenges, the main stage programs and DIY activities were scheduled to continue as planned. The event also featured a planned night kite exhibition and was set to run until 8 p.m. Shuttle services remained operational, and authorities stated they would monitor the weather and traffic closely, prioritizing safety.