Tropical depression threatens torrential rain across Taiwan

Taiwan's Central Weather Administration (CWA) forecasts heavy rain for southern Taiwan today, as tropical depression TD22 is expected to intensify southwesterly winds and bring more downpours. This follows periods of heavy rainfall in southern and central Taiwan, with mountainous areas experiencing significant accumulations.

Areas in Tainan, such as Yongkang District, recorded over 132mm of rainfall in three hours, while Pingtung County's Wandan Township registered the highest accumulated rainfall nationwide at 281mm by yesterday afternoon. Other southern areas like Kaohsiung and Tainan also saw substantial rainfall. In response to the approaching stronger winds, the CWA activated enhanced operations for large-scale or severe rainfall monitoring.

Extremely heavy rain is anticipated in southern Taiwan from today through early Tuesday, with potential for localized extremely heavy rain in Chiayi and eastern Taiwan, and heavy rain in central regions. Mountainous areas in Chiayi County, Kaohsiung, and Pingtung may meet thresholds for work and class suspensions.

As of yesterday afternoon, TD22 was located about 350km east of Taiwan. Although the Japan Meteorological Agency designated it as Typhoon Gaenari, the CWA maintains its classification as a tropical depression due to relatively weak circulation and convection. The system is forecast to move northwest before turning west toward the Chinese coast. Even if it strengthens into a typhoon, its projected path is expected to remain more than 300km north of Taiwan, making a sea warning unlikely. However, it is expected to enhance the southwesterly flow, bringing heavier rain to southern Taiwan. Separately, Typhoon Saudel, located much further east, is forecast to move toward the Ryukyu Islands later this week.