Taipei logs hottest May temperature on record

Taipei recorded its hottest May temperature ever at 38.3°C on June 19, surpassing the previous record of 38.2°C set in 2018 and 2021, according to the Central Weather Administration. The extreme heat affected multiple regions in Taiwan, with Tainan reaching 39.8°C, while heat alerts were issued for 12 cities and counties due to prolonged high temperatures and slow nighttime cooling." "article": "Taipei’s weather station in Zhongzheng District recorded 38.3°C on June 19, marking the highest May temperature since 1896, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) confirmed. The previous record of 38.2°C was set on May 28, 2021, and May 27, 2018. The CWA attributed the heatwave to a Pacific high-pressure system, reduced cloud cover, and descending air currents from southwesterly winds, which trapped heat across the Taipei basin. Overnight temperatures remained unusually high, with the Taipei station logging a low of 28.7°C due to persistent southwesterly winds. Across Taiwan, Tainan’s Yujing District hit 39.8°C, while New Taipei City’s Xindian District reached 39.6°C. The CWA warned that 12 cities and counties, including New Taipei City, Tainan, and Hualien County, could face three consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 38°C. By June 20, temperatures in Kaohsiung’s Jiaxian District and Pingtung County’s Jhutian Township had already climbed to 37.2°C and 37°C, respectively. Taipei’s Xinyi District recorded 34°C early in the day. The CWA forecast similar conditions for June 20, with relief expected on June 21 as a seasonal rain front moves southward. Urban heat island effects in Taipei worsened the situation, with Shilin District temperatures nearing 30.6°C at 2am on June 19, creating a "tropical night" pattern. Researchers noted that prolonged nighttime heat increases health risks, particularly for the elderly and those without air conditioning, as the body struggles to cool during sleep. This raises cardiovascular stress and heat-related illness risks. National Cheng Kung University’s Building and Climate Laboratory highlighted the dangers of accumulated urban heat, which dissipates slowly in densely built areas. The CWA’s heat alerts remain in effect as authorities monitor the situation, with meteorologists predicting temporary relief from rainfall in the coming days.