TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan swelters under intense summer heat as the Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署), Taiwan's national meteorological agency, warned Tuesday (July 1) of a powerful Pacific high-pressure system dominating the island's weather patterns. The system has brought mostly sunny to partly cloudy conditions across the region, though southeastern coastal areas and the tropical Hengchun Peninsula (恆春半島) could experience brief but intense afternoon showers or thunderstorms.
Meteorologists predict afternoon thunderstorms will develop primarily in mountainous terrain stretching from Hsinchu county southward. Weather officials emphasized these elevated regions face significantly higher rainfall probability compared to coastal plains. Temperature readings across most of Taiwan will climb between 32 and 35°C (89.6 and 95°F), while northern regions could see the mercury approach a scorching 37°C (98.6°F) during peak afternoon hours.
The scenic Hualien Valley (花蓮縱谷) in eastern Taiwan, central and southern mountain-adjacent regions, and the offshore island of Kinmen could experience even more extreme conditions with temperatures potentially exceeding 36°C (96.8°F). Health officials urged residents to shield themselves from dangerous midday ultraviolet radiation by applying sunscreen and maintaining proper hydration. Taiwan's outlying archipelagos will experience varying heat levels: Penghu islands ranging from 27 to 33°C (80.6 to 91.4°F), Kinmen from 27 to 35°C (80.6 to 95°F), and Matsu from 27 to 31°C (80.6 to 87.8°F), all while enjoying predominantly clear skies.
Taiwan's meteorological officials warn the current heat wave shows no immediate signs of abating, with the combination of high temperatures and unpredictable thunderstorms creating potentially hazardous conditions across the island. Weather experts recommend citizens closely monitor official updates through local media and government channels while implementing basic heat safety protocols. Vulnerable populations, including elderly residents and outdoor workers, face particularly elevated risks during this extended period of extreme weather. ◼