Rain likely from Thursday to Saturday: CWA

Taipei, June 9 (CNA) Taiwan may experience more rainfall from Thursday to Saturday due to a tropical disturbance, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) said Monday.

The tropical disturbance, currently hovering over the South China Sea, could develop into a tropical depression as early as Tuesday but is not expected to directly affect Taiwan, CWA forecaster Chang Cheng-chuan (張承傳) said.

However, rain -- mostly localized showers and thunderstorms -- is likely across Taiwan from Thursday to Saturday due to moisture brought by the outer periphery of the weather system, Chang said.

Chang said afternoon showers are expected, with heavy rain likely in mountainous areas.

Meanwhile, southeasterly winds will continue on Tuesday, bringing rain to eastern and southeastern Taiwan. Western parts of the island may also see rain, mostly in the form of afternoon showers or brief thunderstorms.

The CWA also issued a heat alert at 5:20 p.m. Monday, warning of high temperatures in eight municipalities in northern and southern Taiwan on Tuesday.

According to the alert, temperatures in Tainan, Kaohsiung and Pingtung County could reach 36 degrees Celsius for three consecutive days, including Tuesday.

In addition, highs of 36 degrees or more are likely on Tuesday only in Taipei and New Taipei and in the southern counties of Changhua, Yunlin and Chiayi, the CWA warned.