I live in Chiayi County, Taiwan, which is located on the West Coast of the island. Here, we are protected by a massive mountain range that runs through the center of Taiwan. These mountains block the majority of storm winds from typhoons, which are the Pacific Ocean equivalent of hurricanes. We still have earthquakes, typhoon winds and rain, and extreme heat in the summertime, but the worst natural disaster impacts are often felt on Taiwan’s East Coast. In the winter, Chiayi City experiences dangerous levels of pollution, most of which is carried to the island by northeasterly monsoon winds from China. Taiwan’s unique climate has resulted in innovative adaptations by locals to address various environmental factors such as heat, wind, rain and pollution.
Taiwan is unique for a number of reasons. Taiwan’s subtropical climate contributes to a year-long warm environment that turns dangerously hot in the summertime and results in children wearing big coats in 70 degree weather in the Taiwanese winter. Taiwan is also exposed to frequent typhoons and monsoon winds and rains that move up through the Pacific Ocean.
