Typhoon Bai-helong Expands Warning Zone, Bringing Strong Winds, Heavy Rain, and Extreme Heat to Taiwan

Typhoon Bai-helong has expanded its reach, prompting the Central Weather Administration (CWA) to issue an updated sea typhoon warning that now encompasses Taiwan's northern and northeastern waters. The storm, currently a moderate typhoon, is expected to bring significant weather changes to the island.

Forecasters predict strong winds along Taiwan's coastlines starting Friday, with localized gusts persisting throughout the day. The most substantial rainfall is anticipated for Saturday and Sunday, as Bai-helong's outer circulation affects the island. Mountainous regions north of central Taiwan, particularly from Taichung northward, are at risk of experiencing heavy to torrential downpours and thunderstorms.

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The intensity of the Bai-helong typhoon remains moderate tonight, but its intensity shows a slight weakening trend. Starting tomorrow, coastal areas of Taiwan will experience stronger winds, with localized strong winds continuing throughout the day. Coastal areas of the north should also be vigilant.

In contrast to the expected heavy rains in the north and center, eastern Taiwan will be on the leeward side of the typhoon. This position is forecast to cause "Föhn" winds, leading to extremely high temperatures. The CWA warns that areas like Yilan and Hualien could see temperatures soar above 38 degrees Celsius, a condition expected to continue through Monday.

The typhoon's center was located approximately 620 kilometers northeast of Taipei at 8 PM Thursday. It is moving southwest to west-northwest at about 12 kilometers per hour. Bai-helong's maximum sustained winds near its center are estimated at 40 meters per second (about 144 km/h), equivalent to a Category 13 storm. Its wind radii extend 280 kilometers for seven-level winds and 90 kilometers for ten-level winds.

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Starting tomorrow, rainfall in central and northern Taiwan will be significant, but eastern Taiwan will be on the leeward side, experiencing Föhn winds, which will continue to affect the area until next Monday. Yilan and Hualien will experience temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius, and special attention is needed.