When Will Taiwan's First Plum Rain Front Arrive? The Weather Agency Weighs In

A Look Ahead at Taiwan's Anticipated Plum Rain Season and Its Potential Impact.

As Taiwan anticipates its annual plum rain season, the question on everyone's mind is: When will the first 梅雨 (méiyǔ) or plum rain front arrive? According to weather forecaster 劉沛滕 (Liu Pei-Teng) from the Central Weather Administration (CWA), May and June mark the period for 梅雨 (méiyǔ) in Taiwan. The fronts that influence the weather during this time are, of course, plum rain fronts.

Currently, the CWA projects a possible plum rain front forming north of Taiwan after next Sunday. However, whether this front will significantly impact Taiwan remains to be seen and is under observation.

The CWA explains that during May and June, Taiwan experiences the plum rain season, characterized by predominantly overcast and rainy conditions, although occasional sunny days do occur. Taiwan's plum rain is caused by the interaction between the cold air masses from mainland China and the warm air masses from the Pacific. These air masses often clash from southern China to Taiwan and the Ryukyu Islands, forming a stationary front (also known as the plum rain front). This front often experiences low-pressure disturbances, resulting in moderate to heavy thunderstorms, bringing abundant rainfall to Taiwan.