Taiwan has experienced its most intense plum rain season in over a decade, marked by unprecedented levels of rainfall nationwide and record-breaking precipitation in Taipei for the month of June. Data from the Central Weather Administration indicates that the rainy period from May to June saw an average of 609.9 millimeters of rainfall across the island, which is well above the historical norm of 440.7 millimeters. The heavy downpours were primarily caused by stationary weather fronts, powerful southwesterly air currents, and the impact of a tropical storm.
Southern Taiwan was notably impacted, with some regions receiving between 400 and 800 millimeters of rain during the early part of June. Pingtung County was particularly drenched, with nearly 1,000 millimeters recorded over just a three-day span. In Taipei, the rainfall reached new heights for June, totaling 870.5 millimeters, the most significant amount since the city began keeping records in 1897.
As Taiwan moves into the latter half of the year, weather officials anticipate that temperatures will remain within the normal to above-normal range through September. Meanwhile, rainfall levels are expected to align closely with seasonal averages. Predictions also suggest that three to five tropical storms or typhoons could approach Taiwan during this period. Forecasters emphasize that the developing El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean might lead to more intense tropical storms, as these conditions provide more time for storms to strengthen over warm ocean waters before reaching the region.
The official start of Taiwan’s typhoon season is July 1. In preparation, authorities are introducing innovative coastal wave warning measures aimed at enhancing public safety during severe weather conditions. These new measures are part of a broader strategy to mitigate the impacts of potential typhoons and ensure the safety of residents in vulnerable coastal areas.