Western Taiwan's Early Spring Water Shortage Eased by Tomb-Sweeping Day Frontal Rains

According to statistics from the Central Weather Administration, the average cumulative rainfall at six representative stations in western Taiwan (Taipei, Hsinchu, Taichung, Chiayi, Tainan, and Hengchun stations) during the last winter (December last year to February this year) set the lowest record since 1951, approximately 24.3 millimeters, only about 17% of the climate value (143.7 millimeters).

The Central Weather Administration stated today on its Facebook page "Report Climate - Central Weather Administration" that, adding to the aforementioned statistical period until the end of March this year, the average cumulative rainfall at the six western stations was approximately 57.3 millimeters, still the lowest on record, only about 27% of the climate value (210.3 millimeters).

However, due to the influence of a frontal system during the Tomb-Sweeping Day holiday, extending the statistical period to April 7, the average cumulative rainfall at the six western stations has risen from less than 30% of the climate value at the end of March to over 70% currently.

Huang Chun-hsi, director of the Central Weather Administration's Weather Forecast Center, told CNA that compared to the extremely dry conditions at the end of March, this rainfall during the Tomb-Sweeping Day holiday has indeed temporarily eased the water shortage in western Taiwan since early spring.

Huang Chun-hsi added that based on long-term forecast information, there will be no particularly significant system development until early May, meaning there may not be very significant rainfall. Furthermore, the plum rain season cannot be ruled out to be relatively dry, but later forecasts still have great uncertainty and require continuous observation.

The Central Weather Administration pointed out that before the plum rain season begins, there is expected to be a period of relatively stable weather, and subsequent rainfall conditions remain uncertain. Although short-term rainfall has provided initial relief, the public is still urged to maintain good water conservation habits before the period of stable rainfall arrives. (Edited by Chang Ya-ching) 1150409