Taiwan braces for vigorous plum rain season, experts warn of disaster-causing downpours
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Taiwan is expected to enter a vigorous plum rain season next week, with experts warning of potential disaster-causing rainfall.
- The season, influenced by a stationary front and the southwest monsoon, could last for nearly a week, bringing heavy downpours.
- Authorities are urging residents to prepare for severe weather, including thunderstorms, strong winds, and intense rainfall.
Taiwan is bracing for a week-long "vigorous plum rain season" starting next week, according to weather experts. The anticipated heavy rainfall, driven by a stationary front and the southwest monsoon, raises concerns about potential disaster-causing downpours.
Meteorologist Wu Der-rong explained that from Monday to Sunday of next week, the fifth frontal system of the plum rain season will hover over Taiwan. This, combined with the prevailing southwest monsoon, creates a typical "vigorous plum rain period." He warned that the unstable atmosphere could trigger "mesoscale systems," leading to "severe weather" such as lightning, strong winds, and sudden, intense rainfall.
The plum rain season is expected to be vigorous, and we need to guard against disaster-causing rainfall.
Wu noted that current forecasts from European and American models suggest this pattern will persist for at least another week. He advised the public to stay alert for weather advisories from the Central Weather Administration and to prepare for disaster prevention measures. The exact duration beyond the next ten days remains uncertain, requiring continued observation.
We are entering a typical 'vigorous plum rain period' with unstable atmosphere, likely to cause severe weather.
Meanwhile, the "Taiwan Typhoon Forum | Weather Express" described the current period, from Friday to Sunday, as a "prelude" to the main plum rain season. A low-pressure system moving over Taiwan, coupled with the incoming southwest monsoon, is expected to cause unstable atmospheric conditions and afternoon thunderstorms across the island. Southern Taiwan and Taitung will experience continuous rain, while other areas will primarily see afternoon showers with the potential for heavy downpours.
The forum confirmed that the plum rain season officially begins next week with the stationary front. This front is expected to oscillate near Taiwan for about a week, bringing frequent rain. If the front's position aligns well with the southwest monsoon, some areas might even experience prolonged or heavier rainfall. The forum also cautioned that specific rain zones and intensity will depend on the monsoon's strength and the front's exact location. However, the arrival of the plum rain season is considered certain and offers welcome news for regions facing water shortages.
The plum rain season officially begins next week, and we are preparing for a period of frequent rain.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.