Taipei, Taiwan--November 28, 2008-The Central Weather Bureau (CWB) announced this coming winter’s (December 2008 to February 2009) climate outlook for Taiwan area. The mean temperature has the largest probability of being near normal (climate mean) for the three months all over Taiwan. However, there might still be a chance with above normal temperature. As for the precipitation, a near to above normal situation is expected for December 2008, while near normal rainfall is predicted in the first two months of 2009.

For both December 08 and January 09, the probabilities of temperature prediction in the three categories -- below normal, near normal, and above normal, are 10%, 50%, and 40%, respectively. For February 09, the probabilities in the three categories are 20%, 50%, and 30%.


The CWB also pointed out that, according to the atmospheric and oceanic monitoring data, the sea surface temperature (SST) has returned to near normal over much of the central Pacific Ocean, eastern equatorial area. Also, the SST forecasts indicate a continuation of ENSO-neutral conditions into the first half of 2009.


However, a winter month with mild mean temperature may still occasionally appear cold weather and a sharp drop in diurnal temperature; the CWB reminds those who are more sensitive to daily temperature variation should winterize their bodies and homes and stay tuned for updated weather information. Also, beware of indoor ventilation while using gas heater to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.


Moreover, the winter season is typically a dry period especially for the central and southern part of Taiwan, the public is recommended to economize on water. The CWB periodically issues its one-month and three-month climate outlook and updates on its website: http://www.cwb.gov.tw