TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) issued a cold surge advisory early Tuesday (Jan. 6) as temperatures dropped sharply across Taiwan, prompting concerns for public health and safety. Forecasters predicted temperatures could fall below 10 degrees Celsius (50°F) in parts of 12 counties and cities from morning through night, with conditions worsening throughout the day. The agency warned that the cold would intensify as the day progresses, affecting much of the island and requiring residents to take precautions.
CWA Meteorologist Lin Ting-yi (林定宜) warned of a "colder as it gets later" trend starting Tuesday, with brief showers expected in eastern Taiwan and the Hengchun Peninsula (恆春半島), located at Taiwan's southern tip. Northern regions will experience rain or cloudy skies throughout the day, adding to the discomfort for commuters. Lin forecasted that the coldest period would extend from Tuesday night until early Wednesday (Jan. 7) morning, urging residents across the island to prepare accordingly.
The CWA also issued a strong wind advisory at 4:31 a.m. Tuesday. Some areas might experience sustained winds above Beaufort level 6 (39-49 km/h) or gusts exceeding level 8 (62-74 km/h) from Tuesday morning through Wednesday night. Lin noted that temperatures in central and northern regions could drop to 9 to 11 degrees Celsius (48.2-51.8°F), while other areas might see temperatures of 13 to 15 degrees Celsius (55.4-59°F).
Lin added that the cold front might weaken by Friday (Jan. 8) or Saturday (Jan. 9), bringing stable weather and slight daytime warming. However, more cold air could follow, with its intensity still uncertain at this time. The CWA advised residents to stay warm and ensure proper ventilation when using gas water heaters to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, a common hazard during cold snaps in Taiwan. ◼