Climate and Weather of Taiwan
Taiwan has both tropical and humid subtropical climate zones, with its highest mountain peaks exhibiting tundra-like conditions.The central mountain range on the island plays a pivotal role in the distribution of various weather patterns. Consequently, the western side of Taiwan is somewhat shielded from the effects of the monsoon, rendering it drier. In contrast, the northern and eastern regions experience more cloud cover and are generally wetter due to the influence of the monsoon.
Taiwan is influenced by two primary monsoon types: the northeast and southwest monsoons. The northeast monsoon, often referred to as the winter monsoon, prevails from late October to March. During this phase, cooler temperatures and consistent rainfall dominate, especially in the northern and eastern parts of the island.
The southwest monsoon is active from June to September, which introduces warmer and wetter conditions, particularly in southern and central Taiwan. This period is also marked by heightened humidity and occasional intense downpours, categorizing it as the more humid and rain-drenched segment of the year.
Rainfall is abundant throughout Taiwan. For instance, the capital, Taipei, receives over 2000 mm of rainfall annually, with the majority occurring during the summer. Visitors to this city quickly realize the frequency of rain and the indispensability of an umbrella. Many upscale hotels even offer complimentary umbrellas to their patrons. The driest regions in Taiwan still receive a considerable amount of rainfall, averaging around 900 mm per year. The wettest locales can amass up to an impressive 5000 mm annually.
The southern section of Taiwan is characterized by a predominantly tropical climate accompanied by warm temperatures. Here, temperatures typically vary between 25°C and 34°C. However, during the winter months (December to February), the mercury drops a bit, usually settling between 18°C and 24°C. Yet, the weather remains agreeably mild.
Hurricanes in Taiwan
Taiwan is susceptible to hurricanes, especially from June to October. These tropical cyclones, locally termed "typhoons," can unleash heavy rainfall and ferocious winds. On occasions, they might even instigate severe flooding. Due to its geographical location adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, the eastern coastline of Taiwan is particularly at risk of direct typhoon hits. Those considering a visit during this period should prioritize staying informed through weather updates.
Are you interested in more detailed information for various cities in Taiwan?
Please select the city you plan to visit, or one closest to your destination. For each selected city, you will see the following graphs:
1. Yearly average minimum and maximum temperatures
2. Monthly averages of precipitation throughout the year (rainfall, snow etc)
3. Monthly average hours of sunshine throughout the year
Additionally, some pages provide historical weather data such as humidity, wind speed, and water temperature.