Heat warnings issued Thursday for most of Taiwan; south under 'red' alert

Taipei, July 2 (CNA) The Central Weather Administration (CWA) issued heat alerts for many areas across Taiwan on Thursday, warning of temperatures of up to 38 degrees Celsius in some regions.

In Pingtung County in southern Taiwan, daytime highs of 38 degrees are expected for three consecutive days, the CWA indicated, issuing a "red" heat warning for that area.

Also in southern Taiwan, an "orange" heat alert has been issued for Tainan City, warning that the temperature could climb to 38 degrees on Thursday.

"Orange" heat alerts are also in effect for Taipei and New Taipei cities in the north, Kaohsiung City in the south, and Yilan and Hualien counties in the east, indicating highs of 36 degrees for three consecutive days.

The CWA issued a "yellow" heat alert for Changhua County in central Taiwan, as well as for Yunlin and Chiayi counties in the south, warning of daytime highs of up to 36 degrees on Thursday.

The high temperatures are being caused by a Pacific high-pressure system and warm southeasterly winds, the CWA said, warning of high levels of ultraviolet radiation, particularly around midday.

Members of the public are advised to stay hydrated and take precautions against heatstroke, the CWA said, adding that the hot weather is expected to persist through the rest of the week.

While sunny skies are expected to prevail across most of Taiwan on Thursday, sporadic showers are likely in Taitung County and on the Hengchun Peninsula in the south, while some mountainous areas may see afternoon thunderstorms, the CWA said.