Weather: New Typhoon Approaching! 'Dolphin' to Form Today, Heavy Rain to Hit 3 Counties, Full Impact on Taiwan Explained

According to the latest observations from the Central Weather Administration, a tropical disturbance originally located in the central Pacific has crossed the International Date Line and entered the Northwest Pacific, intensifying into a tropical depression in recent days. Wu Derong, adjunct associate professor at the Department of Atmospheric Sciences at Central University, stated that this tropical depression is expected to officially develop into the 13th typhoon of the year, 'Dolphin,' as early as today (27th).

The Central Weather Administration issued a heavy rain alert in the early hours of the 27th, urging residents in Taitung, Penghu, the Hengchun Peninsula, and mountainous areas of Pingtung to be cautious of localized heavy rainfall. Affected areas may experience strong gusts and lightning due to rainfall, and low-lying areas should remain vigilant against flooding. With consecutive days of rain, mountain soils have become loose, so the public visiting mountainous regions should be especially alert to dangers such as landslides, falling rocks, and sudden river surges.

Will Typhoon No. 13 'Dolphin' Hit Taiwan?

Regarding the typhoon's path—the issue of greatest public concern—Wu Derong noted that the formation of Dolphin near a high sea surface temperature zone creates favorable conditions for continuous system development. In the future, it could even evolve into a large and powerful typhoon typical of a strong El Niño year. However, according to the latest simulation tracks from international forecast models, Dolphin's projected path poses no direct threat to Taiwan, so the public does not need to overly worry about a direct typhoon strike.

Where Will It Rain Today?

Although the typhoon itself will not directly affect Taiwan, surrounding moisture will still influence the weather. Affected by southerly winds and residual moisture from the previous Typhoon Noul, localized rainfall is expected in southeastern and southern regions today, while other areas should remain alert for afternoon thunderstorms.

From tomorrow through the 29th, atmospheric moisture will slightly decrease, with only occasional brief showers in the southeast and south. Isolated thunderstorms may still develop in mountainous areas during the afternoons, potentially affecting nearby lowland areas. During this period, weather will remain hot in non-rainy periods, so sun protection and hydration are essential to prevent heatstroke when outdoors.

When Will the Weather Stabilize This Week?

Wu Derong mentioned that from the 30th to August 1st, atmospheric moisture will further decrease. As the Pacific high-pressure system slightly strengthens, the overall atmospheric environment will gradually stabilize, leading to clear and hot daytime conditions across regions, with only isolated afternoon thunderstorms in mountainous areas.

From August 2nd to 5th, Taiwan will be fully covered by the Pacific high-pressure system, resulting in continued clear and scorching hot weather across all regions. Heat protection and sun safety measures are essential.