By KHT Staff
KAOHSIUNG — Southern Taiwan is expected to see a wet and unsettled week as a plum rain front lingers near Taiwan and strengthening southwesterly winds bring moisture into the region.
The Central Weather Administration (中央氣象署) has warned that the fifth plum rain front of the season is expected to remain near Taiwan from Monday through Sunday, increasing the chance of thunderstorms, strong winds and short bursts of heavy rain.
The wettest conditions are expected Tuesday and Wednesday, when rain and thunderstorms are forecast across Tainan (台南), Kaohsiung (高雄) and Pingtung (屏東). Localized heavy rain is also possible, especially in mountainous areas.
In Kaohsiung, daily highs are forecast to stay between 28 C and 31 C through Sunday, with cloudy skies, morning thunderstorms and afternoon rain likely on several days. Tainan is expected to remain very humid, with highs mostly around 29 C to 31 C and repeated periods of rain and thunderstorms. Pingtung is forecast to see similar conditions, with highs ranging from 27 C to 31 C.
The weather system follows several days of unstable conditions. The CWA issued heavy rain advisories last week for Tainan, Kaohsiung and Pingtung, among other areas, as southwesterly winds, a low-pressure system and a weather front affected Taiwan.
Forecasters said residents should watch for sudden downpours, lightning and strong gusts, especially during afternoon and evening hours. Motorists should also be alert for reduced visibility and ponding on roads during heavier showers.
The rain may ease at times, but the overall pattern is expected to remain unstable through the weekend.
Sources: Central Weather Administration, CNA, Focus Taiwan weather data.
