TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A tropical system east of the Philippines could strengthen into a typhoon this week, prompting meteorologists to issue path predictions for Taiwan Tuesday (Sept. 30). The developing weather pattern, designated 93W, threatens to bring dangerous conditions as it moves westward toward the South China Sea. Experts warn the system could directly impact Taiwan's eastern regions Thursday and Friday (Oct. 3-4).
Wu Der-romg (吳德榮), a meteorologist writing for National Central University (中央大學), predicted scorching temperatures reaching 99 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37-38°C) in northern Taiwan through Sunday (Oct. 6). Pacific high pressure will create dangerous ultraviolet conditions across the island, Wu warned, urging residents to limit sun exposure during the extended heat wave.
The tropical system will pass over Luzon Thursday through Saturday (Oct. 2-4), increasing moisture and rainfall probability across Taiwan's eastern counties of Hualien and Taitung, Wu predicted. Meteorologist Lin De-en (林得恩) noted on Facebook that Pacific high pressure continues expanding westward, creating favorable conditions for tropical development from the South China Sea to Philippine waters.
System 93W will maintain tropical depression strength before entering the South China Sea, where it may intensify into a typhoon, Lin emphasized. While direct impact on Taiwan remains unlikely, the system's outer circulation could bring weather changes to eastern regions Thursday and Friday (Oct. 2-4). The tropical disturbance will graze northern Luzon Thursday as it continues its westward trajectory across Philippine waters. ◼