Taiwan braces for intense thunderstorms and heavy rain for seven days

Taiwan is bracing for a week of unstable weather, with meteorologists forecasting intense thunderstorms and heavy rain across the island until next Sunday.

According to Wu Der-rong, an associate professor at National Central University's Department of Atmospheric Sciences, the atmosphere will remain unstable. Residents should be cautious of severe weather, particularly in the afternoons. Today, localized showers are expected in the south and east, with thunderstorms and heavy rain possible in western and eastern mountainous areas. Southern and central regions may also see heavy downpours.

From Monday to Wednesday, the low-pressure trough will continue to influence Taiwan, bringing increased moisture to the east and localized showers. Afternoon thunderstorms are still a concern. By Thursday through Sunday, the trough will slowly move north, leading to more widespread rain. During periods without rain, daytime temperatures will remain high, and strong convective activity could bring lightning, strong winds, and sudden heavy rainfall.

Looking ahead, models suggest the Pacific high-pressure system will gradually strengthen from next Monday to Wednesday, bringing sunny and hot conditions. However, a tropical disturbance is brewing east of Guam and moving northwest. While its trajectory is uncertain and it may not approach Taiwan directly, it could influence weather patterns later in the week, requiring continued observation.