Last Updated on 2025 年 4 月 20 日 by 総合編集組
North Taiwan Faces Severe Weather: Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Alert
On the night of April 19, 2025, northern Taiwan was hit by a powerful weather system, disrupting the evening calm with sudden torrential rain and gusty winds. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) issued multiple weather advisories, including heavy rain, strong wind, and severe thunderstorm warnings, targeting six counties and cities: Keelung, Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu City, and Hsinchu County. This article summarizes the critical details of these alerts, potential risks, safety recommendations, and the weather outlook, ensuring residents and visitors stay informed and safe.
Active Weather Alerts
As of 23:45 on April 19, the CWA reported several active advisories. The Heavy Rain Advisory affects Keelung, Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu City, and Hsinchu County, lasting through April 20. A vigorous convective cloud system is driving short-duration heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flash flooding in low-lying areas. Residents should also prepare for lightning and strong gusts.
The Land Strong Wind Advisory, effective until the afternoon of April 20, covers New Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, Miaoli, and Taitung’s outlying islands (Lanyu and Green Island). Winds may reach average speeds of Level 6 or gusts exceeding Level 8, posing hazards to outdoor activities and unsecured objects. Additionally, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning, valid until 00:15 on April 20, targets Miaoli, Hsinchu, Taoyuan, and New Taipei, highlighting risks of intense rain, lightning, gusts up to Level 9, and reduced visibility.
Why Is the Weather So Severe?
The culprit behind this turbulent weather is a vigorous convective cloud system, characterized by unstable air masses that rapidly form towering clouds. These clouds produce heavy rainfall in short bursts, while friction between water droplets and ice crystals within them generates electrical charges, triggering lightning. The system’s strong air currents also drive powerful gusts, explaining the simultaneous occurrence of rain, lightning, and wind. This interconnected weather phenomenon underscores the need for comprehensive preparedness.
Potential Impacts and Risks
The severe weather poses multiple risks. Torrential rain may overwhelm drainage systems, causing flooding in low-lying areas and reducing visibility for drivers. Strong winds could topple tree branches, billboards, or other loose outdoor items, endangering pedestrians and vehicles. Lightning strikes present a direct threat to anyone outdoors, particularly in open areas. Additionally, the storm may disrupt land transportation, including public transit schedules. Social media reports describe the rain as “sudden and intense,” with some comparing it to typhoon conditions, highlighting the storm’s unexpected ferocity.
Safety Recommendations
To stay safe, consider these practical measures. First, minimize outdoor activities unless absolutely necessary. Avoid high-risk areas like mountains, rivers, or coastal zones, which are prone to flooding or landslides. Secure outdoor items, such as patio furniture or signage, to prevent wind-related damage. When driving, reduce speed, use headlights, and watch for waterlogged roads. To avoid lightning risks, steer clear of open fields or tall trees, and indoors, stay away from windows and electrical appliances. Finally, stay updated via the CWA’s official website or mobile app for real-time weather alerts.
Weather Outlook
Looking ahead, the CWA forecasts that a frontal system will pass over northern Taiwan’s coastal waters on April 20, bringing scattered showers to areas north of central Taiwan. In the afternoon, northern, northeastern, and mountainous regions may experience brief thunderstorms. Western Taiwan is expected to feel warm and humid, so residents should carry umbrellas and stay hydrated.
Stay Vigilant
With the convective cloud system still active, residents in northern Taiwan must remain cautious. Regularly check for updates from reliable sources like the CWA to ensure timely responses to changing conditions. By following safety guidelines and staying informed, you can navigate this severe weather event with confidence.
