TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Central Weather Administration on Friday said Taiwan has received 60% of its average rainfall so far this year.
CWA Administrator Lu Kuo-chen (呂國臣) said rainfall in lowland areas of central and northern Taiwan has reached about 60% to 80% of historical averages, per CNA. Southern Taiwan has received only 30% to 60% of the average rainfall, while mountainous regions have recorded 50% to 70%.
Lu said rainfall in southern Taiwan usually becomes more significant after the plum rain season begins, but noted that this year’s rainy season has not yet fully arrived. He estimated that a week-long wet spell could begin around June 7 and bring much-needed precipitation to central and southern Taiwan.
Lu said that the El Nino phenomenon is expected to continue through the end of the year, allowing typhoons forming farther away from Taiwan more time to strengthen. Lu added the number of typhoons forming over the Pacific Ocean is above average, according to CNA.
