TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The northeast monsoon or a continental cold air mass, along with the South China cloud and rain area, will bring wet and cold weather across Taiwan on Wednesday (March 4). Rainfall will be evident in the northern and eastern regions, with localized heavy rain expected along the northern coast of Keelung and Yilan. Temperatures in western and northeastern Taiwan are predicted to drop to 14 degrees Celsius, with Matsu expected to reach lows of only 11 degrees and Kinmen at 12 degrees. Residents are advised to dress warmly to avoid catching a cold.
A significant weather shift is underway in Taiwan as radar echoes over the Taiwan Strait indicate an intensified convective system, according to TVBS meteorological consultant Cheng Ming-dean (鄭明典). Cheng explained that the cloud clusters associated with the South China rain area are mostly related to the southern branch trough, with rainfall most pronounced in the early morning and affecting Taiwan at similar times each day.
The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) issued a reminder for Tuesday to Thursday (March 5), warning of increased snowfall probabilities in mountains above 3,500 meters. Travelers should exercise caution due to icy roads and snowfall conditions. The northeast monsoon or continental cold air mass will weaken by Thursday, causing temperatures to rise across the island, with highs reaching 22 to 24 degrees Celsius. However, brief showers may still occur in the north, east, and central-southern mountainous areas.
The northeast monsoon will strengthen again on Friday (March 6), bringing cooler temperatures to the north and northeast, with effects lasting until next Monday (March 9). During the weekend (March 7-8), localized brief showers will persist along the northern coast of Keelung and eastern regions. Residents should stay informed about weather updates and prepare accordingly for potential changes in conditions.