Intense heat is anticipated in Taiwan today, with certain regions bracing for temperatures soaring up to 37°C. However, relief in the form of showers and thunderstorms is expected as Typhoon Mekkhala’s outer bands approach the island later this week. The Central Weather Administration has forecasted that most areas will experience a mix of cloudy and sunny skies, with daytime temperatures ranging from 31°C to 36°C. Specifically, areas north of Taoyuan, central and southern inland regions, and the Hualien-Taitung Rift Valley could see temperatures surpassing the 37°C mark.
Typhoon Mekkhala is projected to come closest to Taiwan on Wednesday, although it is not expected to directly hit the island. The storm’s outer circulation is likely to result in sporadic showers and thunderstorms, particularly affecting the northeastern and western parts of Taiwan. Additionally, mountainous areas in the south might face localized heavy rainfall. As of Tuesday afternoon, Mekkhala was positioned approximately 500 kilometers southeast of Oluanpi, on a path towards the Ryukyu Islands and southern Japan. Meteorologists anticipate the typhoon will gradually weaken due to less favorable atmospheric and oceanic conditions.
Following the typhoon’s departure, weather instability is expected to persist due to a front north of Taiwan. This will likely result in periodic rain and thunderstorms continuing through Friday and Saturday, predominantly impacting central and northern regions, while other parts of the island may experience scattered showers. The increased cloud cover and precipitation are forecast to bring down temperatures to around 30°C from Wednesday through Saturday.
Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Higos, situated far east-southeast of Taiwan, is on course to move towards Japan. It is not currently expected to affect Taiwan, allowing residents to focus primarily on the developments concerning Typhoon Mekkhala and the subsequent weather front.