TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) issued torrential rain alerts Thursday (July 31) for 11 counties and cities, including Taichung City, Nantou County, and Yunlin County. The weather bureau cited powerful southwesterly air currents driving prolonged heavy rainfall across central and southern mountainous regions, with intensifying precipitation extending south of Chiayi. These weather patterns signal a significant multi-day storm system affecting much of the island.
Meteorologist Lin De-en (林得恩) emphasized the persistent nature of the approaching rainfall system. The weather expert noted that precipitation is expected to continue until Saturday (Aug. 2), with another surge in southwesterly winds anticipated Sunday (Aug. 3). Changhua County and Tainan City face very heavy rain warnings, while Chiayi City and Taitung County are likely to experience heavy rain, and Miaoli County may encounter significant rainfall accumulations.
The CWA warned of potential landslides, rockfalls, mudslides, and flash floods in mountainous areas while urging extreme caution against flooding in low-lying regions. Residents are strongly advised to remain vigilant when venturing outdoors during severe weather. Temperatures in central and southern Taiwan and Taitung range from 28 to 31 degrees Celsius (82.4 to 87.8°F), while other areas may see highs of 32 to 35 degrees Celsius (89.6 to 95°F), with Greater Taipei potentially experiencing localized temperatures exceeding 36 degrees Celsius (96.8°F). ◼