Taiwan Climate

Now that you're familiar with the directions: Bei or Pei (North), Dong (East), Nan (South) and Xi or Si (West), let's take a look at Taiwan's Climate.

In the Philippines, we have two seasons. As a friend of mine would say, we only have the Hot Season and the Hotter Season =D. It's hot all year round in the Philippines. In Taiwan, they also have two seasons, a hot season (from May to October) and a cool season (from November to April). It does not snow in Taiwan (except on the mountains), but it does get as cold as 5C during the winter.

The map on the left, courtesy of Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau, shows today's weather forecast (February) so you have an idea where the warmer places are... down South! You should make it a habit to visit the website of Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau. This site shows you the weekly and monthly weather forecast fairly accurately. It also has records of recent Earthquakes in Taiwan (Yes! Earthquakes are pretty frequent in this island).

Quick Taiwan Tip: Since it gets a bit cold in Taiwan, you will need two sets of clothes - one set for the hot season and one set for the cold season. Of course, if you're not from the Philippines (or you live in Baguio City), and are used to cold weather, you already know this! You would also notice from the map that the Urban Areas of Taiwan are on the edges of the Island - so this means most of these areas are coastal towns/cities, which means, aside from the cold weather, you have to think about the wind from the sea, which adds up to the chill factor (especially if you are going to Hsin Chu area... it's pretty windy up there).

By the way, this week, the Chinese are celebrating their Chinese New Year! It's the year of the Rat! Let's greet them by saying:

新年快樂 / Xīn nián kuài lè / Happy New Year!!!