Weather Forecast / Father's Day Ruined! Typhoon Dolphin's Latest Path Brings 'Two Consecutive Days of Torrential Rain' – Most Severe Wind and Rain Period Revealed

Moderate Typhoon 'Dolphin' is continuing its advance toward the waters off northern Taiwan. According to the Central Weather Administration (CWA), although Typhoon Dolphin has slightly weakened in intensity, it is expected to maintain moderate typhoon strength as it approaches Taiwan. Tonight (8th) through tomorrow (9th) will be the period when the typhoon comes closest to Taiwan. Affected by its outer circulation, northern and central mountainous areas must remain vigilant against heavy to torrential rainfall. Meanwhile, the eastern region may experience temperatures exceeding 38°C due to the foehn effect caused by descending air on the leeward side.

Latest Movement and Track of Typhoon Dolphin: Land Warning Probability Lowered for Main Island, Matsu Remains Under Close Watch

According to the CWA’s latest observational data, the center of Typhoon Dolphin is located over the sea northeast-east of Taipei, moving westward to northwest-west at 10–14 km/h. Maximum sustained winds near the center reach 35 m/s, with a 7-level gale radius extending 280 km. Currently, marine warnings remain in effect for northern and northeastern waters around Taiwan.

The CWA notes that due to a slight northward shift in the typhoon’s track, the likelihood of the storm’s wind field directly impacting Taiwan’s main island has decreased. Therefore, the probability of issuing a land warning for the main island remains low. For the Matsu region, the chance of being affected by the gale zone has also slightly declined. However, if the typhoon shifts further westward later, Matsu cannot rule out the possibility of a land warning being issued during daylight hours tomorrow. The typhoon is expected to turn northwest-westward tomorrow and gradually move toward China.

Peak Rainfall Period Revealed: Prepare for Localized Torrential Rain from Tonight Through Tomorrow Morning

Due to the interaction between the typhoon’s outer circulation and topographical effects, short-duration intense rainfall has already occurred this morning in the Miaoli and Taichung areas. The CWA warns that as the outer circulation gradually moves inland, intermittent rain will develop across northern, northeastern, and northwestern regions. Rainfall will significantly intensify starting tonight and gradually spread to central plains and southern mountainous areas.

Most Intense Rainfall Period: The heaviest and most concentrated rainfall is expected from tonight through tomorrow morning. Conditions will gradually ease tomorrow night as the typhoon moves away.

Areas Requiring Special Attention: Northern regions and central mountainous areas face a high risk of localized heavy to torrential rain, with northern mountain zones possibly experiencing rainfall exceeding torrential levels. Northeastern mountainous areas and central plains also have potential for isolated heavy downpours.

Future Rainfall Trends. (Image: Courtesy of CWA)

Foehn Effect Causes Extreme Heat; Coastal Areas Warned of Long Swells and Category-10 Gusts

Rainfall distribution shows significant contrast. The Hualien-Taitung (Hua-Dong) region, located on the leeward side, experiences clear skies and scorching heat due to sinking northwest winds. The CWA has issued a high-temperature advisory, warning that Yilan and Hualien are highly likely to experience extreme foehn conditions exceeding 38°C. Taitung, Changhua, Chiayi, Tainan, and Kinmen-Matsu areas may also surpass 36°C.

Regarding sea conditions, coinciding with spring tides and the typhoon’s peripheral influence, long-period swells are likely along coastal areas including Keelung’s northern coast, the eastern region, Hengchun Peninsula, Green Island, Orchid Island, and Matsu. This long-wave phenomenon is expected to persist until the 10th. Additionally, coastal winds are gradually strengthening, with 9–10 level strong gusts possible along Keelung’s northern coast, southeastern coastlines, Hengchun Peninsula, and Matsu’s shores. The public is urged to avoid beach activities and stay safe.