A strong cold front has swept in, bringing some moisture to Yushan’s main peak. Though it didn’t snow, rare ice pellets fell. Above Paiyun Lodge, stunning rime scenery emerged. Strong winds and severe weather around the North Peak have forced many mountaineering teams aiming for the summit to turn back. The Yushan National Park Headquarters has implemented partial snowfield controls—climbing teams must be equipped with proper snow gear to gain entry.
A strong cold front has swept in, rapidly driving down temperatures in the previously warming lowlands, and Taiwan’s highest peak, Yushan, is especially frigid. According to the North Peak weather station, temperatures once dropped to minus six degrees Celsius—the second lowest this winter. Although it was cold enough, there wasn’t enough moisture for snowfall on the main peak. However, near Paiyun Lodge, relatively rare ice pellets fell. Mountain weather is highly changeable, with moments of sunlight and frequent thick fog. Coupled with previous cold fronts, Yushan has long been blanketed in white, with some peaks already transformed into a silver-white world. Staff stationed at Paiyun Lodge said that although the official “Yushan Snow Festival” hasn’t begun yet, many mountaineering teams from around the country still aim to reach the summit. Since the weather in the Yushan area turned harsh after the afternoon of the 26th—with strong winds and heavy fog—many summit-bound teams have been forced to turn back. Partial snowfield controls have been enforced, with strict reviews. Climbers are urged to bring crampons and ice axes, among other mountaineering and snow gear, to gain access.
Deputy Director Wu Xiangjian noted that the Yushan Snow Festival and mountain closure are not expected to begin until February next year. As snowfall becomes more frequent, climbing restrictions will be adjusted according to actual weather conditions. Snowfield warning signs have been enhanced. Above Paiyun Lodge, where winds are strong, snow accumulation is heavy, and terrain is treacherous, climbers should proceed with caution to ensure safety.
(China Broadcasting Corporation)