Heavy rain shut down work and school in Kaohsiung for two days, but department stores kept trading — bad news for retail staff forced to commute through flooded streets.

• Kaohsiung has been hit by days of heavy rain, leaving roads flooded and pitted with potholes.
• The city called off work and school for two days, yet malls and cinemas stayed open as usual.
• Counter staff went online to accuse management of caring only about sales, not their safety.
• One said she was nearly blown off her scooter riding in; others noted stores follow whichever big mall opens first.
• E-Da World said summer hotel occupancy is above 80% and guests still need food and shops, adding staff who cannot travel safely may stay home.

Outlook: More heavy rain is forecast, and the gap between city shutdown orders and private-sector opening hours is likely to stay a sore point.