Heavy monsoon rain has shut down Alishan National Forest Recreation Area and other outdoor sites in Chiayi, bad news for tourists but a needed safety call.

• Strong southwest winds and a low-pressure system are dumping heavy rain on southern Taiwan.
• Chiayi County has cancelled work and school for the day.
• Alishan park, nature trails, the Aogu Wetland forest park, the Taiwan pleione nature reserve, and the Chukou education center are all closed.
• Officials are telling people to stay away from mountains, coasts, and hiking trails while the rain lasts.

Outlook: Sites will reopen only after the weather clears and crews finish damage checks, with reopening dates announced as they go.