Taiwan has just experienced its wettest plum rain season in over a decade, with rainfall levels reaching unprecedented heights since 2012. The Central Weather Administration reported that the May-to-June period saw an average of 609.9 millimeters of rain across the island, well above the historical average of 440.7 millimeters. The deluge was a result of stationary weather fronts, powerful southwesterly airflows, and the impact of a tropical storm.
Southern Taiwan was particularly hard-hit with some areas receiving between 400 and 800 millimeters of rain in just the first half of June. In Pingtung County, certain locations recorded almost 1,000 millimeters of rain over a span of three days. Meanwhile, Taipei set a new record for June rainfall, with an astounding 870.5 millimeters falling throughout the month, the highest since weather records began in 1897.
Weather experts forecast normal to above-normal temperatures continuing through September, with rainfall expected to align with seasonal averages. Moreover, they predict that three to five tropical storms or typhoons may pass near Taiwan in the latter half of the year. The development of El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean could lead to stronger tropical storms, as warm ocean waters might allow them to intensify before nearing the region.
As Taiwan’s typhoon season officially kicks off on July 1, authorities are taking proactive measures to enhance public safety during severe weather events. This includes introducing new coastal wave warning systems. Such efforts aim to better prepare for the potentially intensified storms, underscoring the nation’s commitment to mitigating the impacts of extreme weather conditions.