Pingzhen Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Taiwan

Seasons and Climate

Pingzhen, Taiwan is located in a subtropical climate zone, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters. The year is divided into four distinct seasons:

Spring (March to May): Spring arrives with warm temperatures and occasional showers. As the season progresses, temperatures gradually rise, and humidity levels increase.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the hottest and most humid time of year. Temperatures can soar into the 90s Fahrenheit, and humidity levels often exceed 80%. Thunderstorms are common during this season.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings cooler temperatures and lower humidity. As the season progresses, temperatures continue to drop, and the weather becomes more unsettled, with occasional typhoons.
Winter (December to February): Winter is the coolest time of year, with average temperatures in the 50s Fahrenheit. Nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s, and fog is common in the mornings.

Temperature and Precipitation

Pingzhen has a relatively stable temperature throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 75 degrees Fahrenheit in winter to 90 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. Average lows range from 60 degrees Fahrenheit in winter to 75 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, with an annual average of around 1,500 millimeters. Most of the rainfall occurs during the summer months, when heavy downpours and thunderstorms are common.

Annual and Seasonal Average Temperatures

Pingzhen, Taiwan enjoys a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons. The average annual temperature hovers around 23.4°C (74.1°F), with warm and humid summers and mild winters. The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures around 29°C (84°F), while the coldest month is January, with average temperatures around 16°C (61°F).

Monthly Temperature Fluctuations

Temperature fluctuations throughout the year are relatively consistent, with little variation between the coldest and warmest months. January, February, and March experience the lowest temperatures, ranging from 16.4°C to 18.9°C (61.5°F to 66°F), while June, July, August, and September reach the highest temperatures, averaging between 28.9°C and 29.4°C (84°F to 85°F). April, May, October, and November exhibit moderate temperatures, transitioning between the extremes of summer and winter.

Cloud Formations and Types in Pingzhen, Taiwan

Pingzhen, Taiwan boasts diverse cloud formations throughout the year. During the hot and humid summer months, towering cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds grace the skies, often bringing heavy rainfall or thunderstorms. As the weather cools in autumn, cirrus and cirrostratus clouds become more common, forming thin, wispy streaks or layers that sometimes produce halos around the sun or moon. In winter, low-lying stratus and stratocumulus clouds often blanket Pingzhen, creating a somber and overcast sky.

Cloud Observations and Predictions

Cloud observations play a crucial role in weather forecasting in Pingzhen. Meteorologists monitor cloud types, heights, and movements to predict precipitation, wind patterns, and temperature changes. By analyzing satellite images and weather radar data, they can issue timely warnings for severe weather events such as typhoons or hailstorms. Cloud observation is also essential for aviation, as clouds can affect visibility and turbulence, influencing flight routes and safety. Additionally, cloud formations can serve as indicators of air quality, with thick or discolored clouds suggesting potential pollution or haze.

Annual Precipitation Pattern

Pingzhen, Taiwan experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by abundant precipitation throughout the year. The total annual rainfall averages around 2,000 millimeters, with the wettest months being May and June, when the southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall. The driest months are January and February, with the northeast monsoon suppressing precipitation. The rainfall pattern is influenced by the monsoon winds, seasonal temperature variations, and the topography of the region.

Variability and Extremes

The annual precipitation in Pingzhen exhibits considerable variability. Dry spells and droughts can occur during the drier months, particularly during the influence of the northeast monsoon. Conversely, torrential downpours can lead to flash floods, especially during the typhoon season from July to October. Some years may experience extreme precipitation events, such as tropical depressions or typhoons, which can drop significant amounts of rain in a short period. The unpredictable nature of these events poses challenges for water management and infrastructure planning in the region.

Average Rainfall

Pingzhen experiences abundant rainfall throughout the year, reaching an average of 2,490 millimeters annually. The rainfall pattern is influenced by the subtropical monsoon climate of Taiwan, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Most of the precipitation occurs during the summer months from June to September, peaking in August with an average of 427 millimeters. During this period, the southwest monsoon brings warm, moist air from the ocean, resulting in frequent heavy downpours.

Seasonal Distribution

During the winter months from December to February, rainfall in Pingzhen is significantly lower, averaging around 50 millimeters per month. This dry season is influenced by the northeast monsoon, which brings cooler, drier air from the Chinese mainland. However, even during the driest months, occasional rainfall can occur due to the passage of weather fronts or the remnants of tropical cyclones. The variability of rainfall throughout the year makes it essential for residents to be prepared for both wet and dry conditions.

Historical Snowfall in Pingzhen, Taiwan

Pingzhen, Taiwan, a city located in the northwestern part of the country, has witnessed snowfall on only three recorded occasions: in 1969, 1970, and 2016. The most significant snowfall occurred in December 1969, when the city received a record-breaking 10 centimeters of snow. The snowfall lasted for several hours, creating a picturesque winter wonderland and causing widespread excitement among the locals.

2016 Snowfall Event

The most recent snowfall in Pingzhen was in January 2016. While the snowfall was less significant than in 1970, with only a thin layer of snow accumulating, it still garnered much attention and brought joy to the residents. The snowfall began in the early morning, coating the city’s streets, roofs, and cars in a blanket of white. Schools and businesses were closed for the day, allowing people to enjoy the rare winter spectacle. The snowfall gradually melted as the day progressed, leaving behind memories of a magical winter day in Pingzhen.

Hourly Forecast

The sun in Pingzhen, Taiwan is expected to be shining brightly throughout the day. Temperatures will range from a comfortable low of 18 degrees Celsius in the morning to a high of 28 degrees Celsius in the afternoon. Humidity is expected to be moderate, around 60%, providing a pleasant atmosphere. There is a 0% chance of precipitation, ensuring clear skies and ample sunshine for outdoor activities.

Extended Forecast

The sunny weather in Pingzhen is expected to persist for the next few days. Temperatures will remain stable, with lows ranging from 18-20 degrees Celsius and highs reaching 28-30 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels are predicted to remain moderate, providing comfortable conditions. There is no significant chance of rain or cloud cover in the extended forecast, indicating that the sun will continue to dominate the skies over Pingzhen.

Moon in the Sky at Pingzhen

In the serene skies above Pingzhen in Taiwan, the moon plays an enchanting nocturnal spectacle. As twilight descends, the moon emerges as a celestial beacon, its gentle glow illuminating the cityscape below. The ethereal orb appears ethereal, casting an ethereal silver sheen over the rooftops and streets. Its presence brings a sense of tranquility to the bustling city, inviting contemplation and introspection.

As the night deepens, the moon’s silvery glow intensifies, highlighting the silhouettes of buildings against the dark expanse of the sky. It becomes a celestial companion to the glimmering city lights, providing a contrasting and harmonious element to the urban landscape. The sight of the moon hanging above Pingzhen evokes a sense of wonder and awe, reminding observers of the vastness and beauty of the universe that surrounds them.

Monthly Humidity Patterns

Pingzhen, Taiwan experiences distinct seasonal variations in humidity throughout the year. During the summer months (June to September), humidity levels are at their peak, with average relative humidity values often exceeding 80%. This oppressive humidity is primarily due to the combined effects of high temperatures and the influence of the East Asian monsoon, which brings moisture-laden air from the ocean. As a result, the summer months can feel extremely uncomfortable, both indoors and outdoors.

Conversely, during the winter months (December to February), humidity levels drop significantly, with average relative humidity values typically ranging between 60% and 70%. This drier air is primarily attributed to the prevailing northwesterly winds, which originate from the continent and carry less moisture. Therefore, the winter months in Pingzhen are generally characterized by more comfortable humidity levels, allowing for a wider range of outdoor activities and reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Seasonal Patterns of Wind in Pingzhen, Taiwan

Pingzhen, Taiwan, experiences pronounced seasonal variations in wind patterns. During the winter months (December to February), the prevailing wind direction is from the northeast, carrying cold and dry air from the Siberian-Mongolian high-pressure system. These northeasterly winds are often strong and persistent, contributing to the chilly weather conditions in Pingzhen. In contrast, during the summer months (June to August), the prevailing wind direction shifts to the southwest, bringing warm and humid air from the subtropical Pacific Ocean. These southwesterly winds tend to be lighter and less persistent than the northeasterly winds.

Diurnal Wind Patterns in Pingzhen, Taiwan

In addition to the seasonal patterns, Pingzhen also exhibits distinct diurnal wind patterns. During the daytime, particularly in the afternoons, a sea breeze develops due to the temperature difference between the land and the ocean. The sea breeze flows from the cooler ocean towards the warmer land, bringing a refreshing and cooling effect to Pingzhen. At night, a land breeze develops as the land cools down more rapidly than the ocean. The land breeze flows from the cooler land towards the warmer ocean, carrying with it pollutants and contributing to air quality issues in the area. The diurnal wind patterns in Pingzhen are influenced by several factors, including the topography, the proximity to the ocean, and the prevailing synoptic weather conditions.

Spring (March-May)

Spring in Pingzhen is characterized by mild temperatures, low humidity, and occasional showers. The average temperature ranges from 16°C to 24°C, making it pleasant for outdoor activities. The blooming flowers, such as cherry blossoms and azaleas, add a vibrant touch to the city’s scenery. This season is ideal for hiking in Guanyin Mountain or the Shihmen Reservoir area, with lush greenery and fresh air.

Fall (September-November)

Fall in Pingzhen offers a warm and dry climate, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures ranging from 19°C to 27°C. The leaves of the Ginkgo biloba trees turn a brilliant golden hue, creating a picturesque backdrop. The Pingzhen Mid-Autumn Festival is held during this season, showcasing traditional lanterns, mooncakes, and cultural performances. This time of year is also suitable for cycling along the Dahan River Bicycle Trail, enjoying the autumn colors and the gentle breeze.

Solar Potential in Pingzhen

Pingzhen, a city in Taiwan’s Taoyuan County, exhibits immense potential for solar energy utilization due to its favorable geographical location and climate. The area experiences high levels of solar radiation year-round, with an average of over 4.6 kWh/m2 per day. This abundance of sunlight provides an ideal environment for photovoltaic (PV) systems to generate renewable electricity.

Government Incentives and Support

The Taiwanese government has adopted supportive policies to promote the adoption of solar energy. These policies include feed-in tariffs and tax incentives for PV installations. Additionally, the government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy generation, aiming to reach 20% of total electricity production by 2025. These initiatives have stimulated significant investment in solar projects in Pingzhen and have led to a rapid expansion of solar capacity in the city.

Hills and Valleys:

Pingzhen is known for its hilly terrain, with numerous hills and valleys shaping its topography. The most prominent hill is Batongguan Hill, forming the central point of the city. This hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Other notable hills include Yumen Hill and Yaocuntou Hill. The rolling hills create a picturesque landscape and provide scenic hiking trails. The valleys between the hills are often filled with lush vegetation and winding streams, adding to the natural beauty of the area.

Floodplains and Wetlands:

Pingzhen is located in the Xindian River Basin, which has contributed significantly to the formation of its topography. The river basin has created floodplains and wetlands along the Xindian River and its tributaries. These areas are characterized by low-lying flat land and are susceptible to flooding during heavy rainfall. The wetlands provide essential habitats for a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many endangered species. The flat terrain of the floodplains has also allowed for the development of agricultural land and urban areas.

Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), formerly known as Chiang Kai-shek International Airport, is the primary international airport serving the Greater Taipei area, including Pingzhen City. Located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Pingzhen, TPE is the busiest airport in Taiwan and handles over 40 million passengers annually. The airport features two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which offer connecting flights to destinations around the world. It is easily accessible from Pingzhen by highway or public transportation, such as buses or the Taoyuan Airport MRT line.

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Access Magnet (ATRAM)

The Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Access Magnet (ATRAM) is a high-speed railway service that connects Taoyuan International Airport to major cities in Taiwan, including Pingzhen City. The ATRAM line runs from Taipei Main Station to Taoyuan HSR Station, which is located near the airport. From Taoyuan HSR Station, passengers can take the Taoyuan Airport MRT line to reach Pingzhen City. The ATRAM service provides a convenient and efficient way to travel between Pingzhen and the airport, reducing travel time significantly compared to other transportation options.

Geography and History

Pingzhen is a bustling city located in the northwestern part of Taiwan, in the Taoyuan District. It is bordered by Dayuan to the north, Longtan to the southeast, Bade to the southwest, and Guishan to the west. Pingzhen covers an area of approximately 16.48 square kilometers (6.36 square miles) and has a population of around 220,000. The city is situated at the confluence of the Lalaoke River and the Xinwu River, which contribute to its fertile plains and rich agricultural heritage. Pingzhen traces its origins back to the 18th century when it was known as “Fengche Village.” It was officially incorporated as a city in 2014, recognizing its rapid growth and economic development.

Transportation and Economy

Pingzhen is well-connected to major transportation networks, including the Taoyuan International Airport and the Taiwan High-Speed Rail. The city’s central location and excellent infrastructure have fostered its economic growth. Pingzhen is a major industrial and manufacturing hub, particularly in the electronics and semiconductor industries. It is home to several large-scale industrial parks, attracting numerous multinational corporations and domestic businesses. The city also boasts a strong agricultural sector, with a significant production of rice, sugarcane, and vegetables. In recent years, Pingzhen has diversified its economy with the development of tourism, retail, and healthcare services. Its proximity to the airport and scenic natural surroundings offer potential for further growth in these sectors.