Wednesday sunny to cloudy with strong UV rays, sun protection advised

Taiwan is bracing for a day of sunny to cloudy skies with high temperatures on Wednesday, accompanied by strong ultraviolet (UV) radiation, prompting warnings for sun protection. The weather will remain under the influence of the Pacific high-pressure system, leading to hot conditions across the island.

Temperatures are generally expected to reach between 32 to 35 degrees Celsius, with some areas, including the Taipei Basin, near-mountain regions in the central and southern parts, and the Hualien-Taitung valley, potentially experiencing even higher temperatures, possibly between 36 to 38 degrees Celsius. The UV index is predicted to be at excessive or dangerous levels, especially around midday, necessitating diligent sun protection and hydration.

Adding to the weather concerns, Typhoon Bavi, currently a strong typhoon, is moving westward. It is located about 1930 kilometers east-southeast of Taiwan's southern tip. The typhoon is expected to begin influencing Taiwan's weather from Friday, with the most significant impact anticipated from Friday night through Saturday daytime. Heavy rainfall is particularly possible in mountainous areas north of Taichung.

Looking ahead, Thursday is forecast to see increased cloud cover with a chance of localized afternoon thunderstorms in the south. Rain probability will gradually increase in northern areas from Thursday evening. The weekend is expected to bring wind and rain across the island due to Typhoon Bavi's passage, with the central, northern, and eastern regions likely to experience the most intense conditions. By Sunday, as the typhoon moves away, unstable weather with scattered showers and thunderstorms may persist due to lingering southern moisture.

Regarding air quality, most regions, including Miaoli, central Taiwan, Yunlin-Chiayi, Pingtung, Yilan, Hualien, and the outlying islands of Matsu, Kinmen, and Penghu, are expected to have a "good" air quality rating. However, the northern air quality zone will be under an "orange alert."