Taiwan is currently experiencing its wettest plum rain season in more than a decade, with rainfall levels reaching a peak not seen since 2012. The Central Weather Administration reported that the May-to-June rainy season delivered an average precipitation of 609.9 millimeters across the island, considerably surpassing the historical norm of 440.7 millimeters. This intense rainfall was largely attributed to stationary weather fronts, robust southwesterly airflows, and the presence of a tropical storm.
Southern Taiwan faced the brunt of these heavy rains, with numerous areas recording between 400 and 800 millimeters of rain in the first half of June. In particular, Pingtung County saw nearly 1,000 millimeters of rainfall over just three days. Meanwhile, Taipei shattered its June rainfall record by accumulating 870.5 millimeters during the month, marking the highest recorded amount since weather data collection began in 1897.
Looking ahead, meteorologists anticipate that temperatures will persist at normal to above-normal levels through September. Rainfall is expected to hover around the seasonal averages, yet predictions indicate that Taiwan could see three to five tropical storms or typhoons in the latter half of the year. Experts highlight that the developing El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean might contribute to stronger tropical storms by providing warmer ocean waters for them to intensify before reaching the region.
As Taiwan’s typhoon season officially kicks off on July 1, authorities are rolling out new coastal wave warning systems to enhance public safety during extreme weather events. These measures aim to better prepare the population for the severe conditions that tropical storms and typhoons can bring, thereby mitigating potential risks and damages.