Heavy rain affects some rail, ferry routes in southern Taiwan

Taipei, July 28 (CNA) Some train and ferry services in southern Taiwan have been suspended over the next few days due to heavy rain, according to the operators of the services.

According to the Central Weather Administration (CWA), the combination of a low-pressure system and southwesterly winds will continue bringing rain to central and southern Taiwan.

The effects of the weather patterns will be most prominent between Monday night and Wednesday, with rainfall peaking from Monday night until tomorrow.

The Alishan Forest Railway and Cultural Heritage Office said it will suspend operations from Monday to Wednesday as a precaution, with reopening dates to be announced based on the weather in the upcoming days.

Ticket holders can get a full refund within one year of their scheduled ride, either through the office or at all Ibon kiosks in 7-Eleven stores across Taiwan, the office said.

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Meanwhile, the Taiwan Railway Corp. (TRC) warned of delays as flash floods have limited services in both directions between Tainan's Houbi and Xinying stations to a single track since 12:43 p.m.

In addition, ferry companies operating between Pingtung County's Donggang Wharf and Xiaoliuqiu Island said Monday that all ferry services will be suspended starting Tuesday afternoon because of strong winds and waves.

According to CWA data, winds could reach as strong as level 5 on the Beaufort scale to bring waves as high as 1.9 meters.

The CWA explained that it forecasted localized extremely heavy rain and torrential rain for Yulin and Chiayi counties as well as Tainan and Chiayi cities.

Kaohsiung and Pingtung County could see localized heavy to extremely heavy rain, while Changhua, Nantou and Penghu might experience localized heavy rain.

The CWA warned of flash floods, thunder and lightning as well as strong gusts in these areas, as well as landslides and fallen rocks in mountainous regions.