Taiwan has been drenched by its wettest plum rain season in over ten years, with rainfall levels nationwide reaching their peak since 2012. In June, Taipei recorded unprecedented precipitation levels, marking a new high in its weather history. Throughout the May-to-June rainy period, the Central Weather Administration reported an average rainfall of 609.9 millimeters across the island, significantly surpassing the typical 440.7 millimeters. This deluge was primarily due to stationary weather fronts, robust southwesterly airflows, and the impact of a tropical storm.
The southern regions of Taiwan bore the brunt of these heavy rains, particularly in areas that saw between 400 and 800 millimeters of rain during early June. Pingtung County was notably affected, with some areas experiencing nearly 1,000 millimeters of rainfall within just three days. Meanwhile, Taipei shattered its June rainfall record, accumulating 870.5 millimeters throughout the month—the highest since weather records began in 1897.
As the island moves into the latter half of the year, weather officials predict that temperatures will range from normal to above normal through September. Rainfall is expected to align with seasonal averages, but the threat of three to five tropical storms or typhoons looms, as they could pass near Taiwan. Meteorologists also pointed out that the developing El Niño conditions in the Pacific Ocean might facilitate stronger tropical storms, as these systems could grow more intense over warm ocean waters before nearing the region.
Taiwan’s official typhoon season kicks off on July 1, and with it comes the implementation of new coastal wave warning measures aimed at enhancing public safety during severe weather conditions. These measures are part of the authorities’ efforts to better prepare and protect citizens as they face the potential challenges that the upcoming storms may bring.