Taiwan braces for afternoon thunderstorms and heat up to 36°C

Residents across Taiwan are advised to prepare for potential afternoon thunderstorms and high temperatures, with some inland areas facing a risk of reaching 36 degrees Celsius. The Central Weather Administration reported that while the morning may see partly cloudy to sunny skies, the afternoon is likely to bring localized thunderstorms, particularly in western Taiwan and mountainous regions of Yilan and Hualien. Heavy rainfall is possible in western areas.

Temperatures are generally expected to range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius, feeling quite warm. However, the inland regions from Changhua to Pingtung could experience highs of 35 to 36 degrees Celsius. The public is urged to take precautions against the strong midday sun and stay hydrated. Overnight lows are predicted to be between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius.

The weather pattern is influenced by a slightly moist environment and southerly winds. Eastern Taiwan and the Hengchun Peninsula may see intermittent scattered showers. Looking ahead, the forecast indicates a gradual decrease in moisture on Tuesday, with continued chances of afternoon thunderstorms in central and northern mountainous areas. From Wednesday to Saturday, a strengthening Pacific high-pressure system is expected to bring hot weather, with highs potentially reaching 36 degrees Celsius in inland areas, the Greater Taipei Basin, and the Hualien-Taitung Rift Valley.

Air quality is forecast to be good in the Yilan, Hualien, Taitung, Yunlin, Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Penghu regions. Northern, Hsinchu, Miaoli, and central regions, along with Matsu and Kinmen, will be in the moderate range.