TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A stationary front approaching Taiwan from the East China Sea combined with strengthening southwesterly winds prompted multiple weather alerts Monday (June 8). The Central Weather Administration (中央氣象署) warned of heavy rain across southern Taiwan and potential torrential downpours in the greater Taipei area by afternoon.
The agency issued a heavy rain advisory for areas south of Chiayi, citing vigorous convective cloud development. Central and southern Taiwan face the highest risk, with mountainous regions particularly vulnerable to flooding. Northern Taiwan, including regions north of Taoyuan, could see short-duration torrential rain during afternoon hours.
Separate strong wind advisories cover coastal counties and offshore islands. Changhua, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Taitung counties face average winds of Beaufort scale 6 or higher — approximately 39 to 49 km/h (24 to 30 mph). Penghu, Lanyu, Green Island, and Matsu could see gusts reaching Beaufort 8, roughly 62 to 74 km/h (39 to 46 mph), through Tuesday evening.
The weather administration urged residents to watch for lightning and strong gusts. Those in mountain areas should guard against landslides, falling rocks, and flash flooding. Low-lying areas should prepare for potential inundation. Outdoor workers should secure loose objects and avoid unstable structures.
The unsettled weather pattern is expected to persist through at least June 14. Conditions will intensify Tuesday and Wednesday as the stationary front and southwest airflow combine. Central and southern mountain areas face the highest risk of rainfall exceeding torrential thresholds during this period, the administration said.
Sunday's rainfall already brought significant accumulations — 94 millimeters (3.7 inches ) at Wushikeng (烏石坑) in Taichung's Heping District (和平區) and 93 millimeters (3.66 inches) at Shulin (樹林) in New Taipei City as of 7 p.m.
Air quality is expected to improve across most of Taiwan due to rain washout effects, with most regions rated "good" and northern Taiwan rated "ordinary," according to the Ministry of Environment (環境部).
Offshore islands will see varying conditions: Penghu expects 26°C to 31°C (78.8°F to 87.8°F); Kinmen 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 87.8°F); Matsu 23°C to 29°C (73.4°F to 84.2°F). You should carry rain gear and check for forecast updates throughout the day. ◼