TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A surge of moisture is enveloping Taiwan Friday (May 9), triggering scattered downpours across the island's southern and southeastern regions, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署). Weather officials warned that northern and central areas face afternoon thunderstorms, with potentially heavy rainfall developing. Residents in northern Yilan, Hualien, and mountainous central-southern zones should prepare for significant precipitation.
An approaching weather front will bring sporadic showers and thunderstorms to regions from central Taiwan northward by evening. CWA officials cautioned that these systems could produce intense short-term downpours and localized flooding. Temperatures will climb dramatically today, with highs between 30 to 34 degrees Celsius (86 to 93.2°F). Near mountainous areas of Tainan and Kaohsiung, mercury could exceed 36°C (96.8°F), while the southeast faces hot, dry foehn winds.
Overnight lows will range between 22 and 27°C (71.6 and 80.6°F) across the island. Taiwan's outlying territories—Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu—will experience predominantly cloudy conditions punctuated by brief showers or thunderstorms. Strong winds are expected along coastal Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and offshore locations including Green Island (綠島). Aviation officials advise travelers to monitor flight status closely, as fog and low cloud formations could significantly reduce visibility around Kinmen and Matsu.
The Taiwan Air Quality Monitoring Network (環境部空氣品質預報), the government's official air quality forecasting system, predicts moderate conditions across most of the island today, though afternoon ozone levels may rise as temperatures peak. Eastern counties of Hualien, Taitung, and the Penghu archipelago will maintain good air quality throughout the day. Health officials recommend residents stay vigilant about both weather and air quality updates as conditions evolve. ★