TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A powerful cold air mass descended over Taiwan on Monday (Jan. 19), bringing significant rainfall and dropping temperatures to northern and eastern regions, the Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) reported. The agency issued a land wind advisory warning of strong winds across 14 counties and cities, effective from Sunday evening through Monday evening. The CWA urged residents to stay warm as the cold snap intensifies throughout the week.
Rain showers have begun across northern and eastern Taiwan, with coastal winds strengthening throughout the day. Central and southern regions, along with the outlying islands of Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu, will experience mostly cloudy to clear skies. The CWA reported that weather will turn increasingly cold in the north and east by Tuesday (Jan. 20), with Keelung, Yilan, and mountainous areas of Taipei and New Taipei City expected to receive heavy rain.
The coldest conditions are forecast for Wednesday (Jan. 21) through Friday (Jan. 23), when northern and eastern Taiwan will experience wet, chilly weather. Keelung, Yilan, and the surrounding mountainous regions will continue to experience heavy rain, while central and southern areas will see increased cloudiness and occasional mountain showers. Temperatures will gradually rise over the weekend, the CWA noted, but cold mornings and nights will persist with local showers along the east and north coasts.
The land wind advisory covers 14 counties and cities, including New Taipei City, Taoyuan City, and Taichung City. The warning remains in effect from Sunday evening through Monday evening, affecting some of Taiwan's most densely populated urban centers along the western coast. ◼