Wu Der-rong: Frontal System to Retreat Northward Starting June 28, Heavy Rainfall Expected to Gradually Subside

The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued a heavy rain alert, warning of torrential rainfall in Yunlin County and heavy rain across seven other counties and cities including Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Pingtung. Meteorologist Wu Der-rong cautioned that the public should remain vigilant against severe weather today, noting that the frontal system is expected to retreat northward from tomorrow through June 30. While significant rainfall is still anticipated tomorrow, precipitation on June 29 and 30 will be primarily driven by afternoon convection.

According to the CWA, the combination of the frontal system and southwesterly winds is causing short-duration intense rainfall. Yunlin County is experiencing torrential to extreme heavy rainfall, while Nantou, Taichung, Changhua, Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Pingtung are seeing heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, northern and eastern regions, including Penghu, face potential heavy rain.

As of 8:00 AM today, accumulated rainfall peaked at 231.5 mm in Xiluo Township, Yunlin, followed by 217 mm in Yuanlin, Changhua, and 192 mm in Nantou City. Wu Der-rong, an adjunct associate professor at National Central University, noted that the latest ECMWF model suggests the approaching front and moisture brought by tropical systems will continue to cause rainfall across the island. Residents are urged to prepare for severe weather, including lightning, strong winds, and potential flooding.

Looking ahead, Wu stated that as the front retreats northward toward the Yangtze River basin between July 1 and July 5, Taiwan will see clearer skies and rising temperatures, with occasional localized afternoon showers in mountainous areas. Regarding tropical activity, current models indicate that while two recent tropical cyclones have dissipated, new tropical disturbances are developing east of Guam and in the South China Sea, which require ongoing monitoring.