Taiwan issues heavy rain alert for southern cities amid monsoon influence

Taiwan's Central Weather Administration has issued a heavy rain advisory for five southern cities, warning of potential localized downpours and thunderstorms. The advisory comes as a stationary front approaches the island, accompanied by a strengthening southwest monsoon. These weather systems are expected to bring widespread and continuous rain to central and southern Taiwan, with intermittent showers also anticipated in the north and Yilan.

The weather agency forecasts a high probability of rain and thunderstorms across the island. Central and southern regions are likely to experience more extensive and prolonged rainfall. In specific areas, including the southern region and parts of northern Taiwan after noon, there is a risk of short-duration torrential rain. Residents are advised to carry umbrellas and avoid mountainous areas unless necessary.

Daytime high temperatures are expected to decrease slightly, ranging from approximately 31 to 34 degrees Celsius in western and eastern Taiwan, with potentially higher temperatures in the East Rift Valley, where Taitung could experience localized heatwaves up to around 36 degrees Celsius. Air quality is generally rated as 'good' in most areas, with the northern region rated as 'normal'.

Looking ahead, the forecast indicates continued rainfall from Tuesday to Wednesday due to the stationary front and southwest airflow. Thursday may see a slight easing of rain as the front moves south, but central and southern areas will still experience scattered showers. From Friday to Sunday, the front is expected to move back north, increasing moisture and bringing more rain, potentially heavy, to western Taiwan and eastern mountainous areas.