With the precipitation in Taiwan falling far short of expectations so far this year, many are hoping that the arrival of May will usher in the rainy season. But predictions from the Central Weather Bureau are less than optimistic.

Due to the effects of La Nina, this spring has yielded little rain. The Central Weather Bureau's Yilan Weather Station has recorded just 11.2 millimeters of rain so far this month, and monthly accumulated rainfall is currently at the lowest level recorded since the station was established in 1935.

Total domestic rainfall for April, meanwhile, is also below the climatological mean.

Brief showers are being forecasted for south-central and northeastern Taiwan on Friday afternoon due to the southern cloud system.

Rain is also expected for all parts of Taiwan north of Taichung on Sunday, and a new front will arrive on Tuesday.

According to the Central Weather Bureau, past experience has shown that there will be little rain in the spring after a La Nina year. This year's rainy season will therefore likely be late and bring little rain.

As torrential rains are always a possibility during the rainy season, the public should prepare for both drought and floods.