TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan experienced a mild and comfortable day on Friday (Jan. 16) despite some cloud cover, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象局). Meteorologists predict a significant weather shift next week as Tropical Storm Nokaen (洛鞍颱風) shifts its path, bringing moisture that will lead to colder, wetter conditions.
Meteorologist Wu Der-romg (吳德榮) noted that mid to low-level clouds moved over Taiwan on Friday morning, disrupting the nighttime radiational cooling and causing temperatures to rise. Hsinchu's Guanxi Township (關西鎮) recorded the island's lowest temperature at 12.8 degrees Celsius. Wu also mentioned that the European model simulation showed an increase in cloud cover today, with a chance of brief rain in eastern regions.
A strong cold front is expected to arrive the following Tuesday (Jan. 20), causing temperatures to plummet. Wu said the north will get progressively colder and wetter, with localized rain in the north and east. From Jan. 21 to Jan. 23, the cold front will persist, bringing cold and damp conditions to northern Taiwan, with chilly mornings and evenings in central and southern regions.
Despite not reaching cold wave standards, Wu warned that the cold air mass would feel intense due to the dampness. The cold air will gradually weaken on Jan. 24 to 25, but there will still be a chance of brief rain in windward areas. TyTech Taiwan | Weather Express (台灣颱風論壇｜天氣特急) also issued a warning about the prolonged cold and wet conditions expected to last through next weekend.