TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan sweltered under blistering temperatures reaching 36 degrees Celsius (96.8°F) on Friday (May 16), the Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署), Taiwan's national weather service, reported. While most of the island endured intense heat, only the eastern regions of Hualien and Taitung, northeastern Yilan County, and southern portions of the Hengchun Peninsula experienced temporary relief from brief rainfall. Weather officials warned residents to prepare for an extended period of summer-like conditions.
According to CWA data, central and southern Taiwan, along with the Greater Taipei metropolitan area in the north, endured temperatures between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius (91.4°F to 95°F) throughout the day. Southern areas adjacent to mountain ranges faced even more severe conditions, with thermometers climbing to 36 degrees Celsius (96.8°F). Remaining parts of the island recorded slightly more moderate but still uncomfortable highs ranging from 30 to 32 degrees Celsius (86°F to 89.6°F).
Meteorologist Wu Der-romg (吳德榮), writing in his widely followed weather column, warned that the island nation will continue to be dominated by a warm air mass from Saturday (May 17) through May 21. Wu predicted daytime conditions would resemble typical midsummer heat despite the calendar still showing late spring. His forecast indicated temperatures could again climb to 36 degrees Celsius (96.8°F) during this extended warm period.
The forecast grows more concerning for May 19-21, when diminished atmospheric moisture will result in clear skies and stable conditions, potentially pushing temperatures to 37 degrees Celsius (98.6°F). Wu strongly advised the public to take preventive measures against excessive sun exposure and heat-related illnesses during this particularly dangerous period. According to the latest European weather model simulations, a weak weather front might traverse waters north of Taiwan during May 22-23, slightly increasing the probability of afternoon rainfall.
Wu explained that this weather front will subsequently shift northward, leaving Taiwan enveloped in the persistent warm air mass through May 24-25, though isolated afternoon showers might develop in elevated mountain regions. Of potential longer-term concern, the most recent American meteorological model simulations have identified an emerging "tropical disturbance" forming in the South China Sea west of the Philippines. This early-season weather system requires ongoing monitoring as Taiwan enters its traditional typhoon season. ◼