Taiwan Braces for a Week of Heavy Rain as Plum Season Intensifies

Taiwan is set to experience a significant shift in weather as the plum rain season intensifies, bringing a week of heavy rainfall starting Monday.

Sunday is forecast to be hot, with temperatures potentially reaching 36 degrees Celsius in parts of central and southern Taiwan, as well as in the eastern valleys and Taitung. Scattered showers are expected in central and southern regions, while northern, eastern, and mountainous areas should prepare for heavy rain or localized torrential downpours, especially in the afternoon.

The Central Weather Administration predicts a high probability of rain across the island. Western and eastern regions will see highs around 33-35 degrees Celsius, while eastern areas will be slightly cooler at 31-32 degrees. Inland areas of the center-south and the Huatung Valley, along with parts of Taitung, could reach 36 degrees due to southwestern wind downdrafts.

Looking ahead, weather experts anticipate the plum rain front will bring increasing moisture on Monday, intensifying showers in the central and southern parts of the island. Tuesday and Wednesday are projected to be the peak of the rainfall, with heavy rain or torrential downpours expected in western and northeastern Taiwan, and heavy rain in Hualien and Taitung. The pattern of heavy rain is expected to continue through the following weekend.