Unstable weather brings showers, thunderstorms to Taiwan

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) announced Monday (June 17) that an unstable weather front located over the Zhejiang (浙江) waters has slightly moved southward towards Taiwan, causing sporadic showers in the western half of the island in the early morning and afternoon.

Thunderstorms are expected in the northern Yilan, Hualien, and other mountainous regions in the afternoon.

The CWA advised that temperatures across Taiwan could reach 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. There's a chance of foehn wind in the southeast, which could push temperatures above 36 degrees. The public is urged to take sun protection measures and stay hydrated.

Matsu (馬祖) and Kinmen (金門), being closer to the front, are likely to experience brief showers or thunderstorms. Matsu might also see heavier rainfall. Low clouds or local fog could affect visibility during dry periods. Travelers to and from Kinmen and Matsu are advised to check flight information.

Meanwhile, strong gusts are likely in exposed areas along the coast north of Hsinchu, as well as on Orchid Island (蘭嶼), Green Island (綠島), and Matsu. Those planning seaside activities should take extra caution.

According to the Ministry of Environment's Air Quality Monitoring Network, the southwest wind could cause pollutants to accumulate in the north. The air quality in Hsinchu, Miaoli, central Taiwan, Yunlin, Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, Yilan, Hualien, Matsu, Kinmen, and Penghu is rated as "good," while the northern region's air quality is "moderate."