Damage Assessment: A flash flood warning has been issued for the capital and six provinces.

[ASEAN NOW]

 

Due to the hurricane month, which brings high rainfall, the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology has issued a warning that devastating floods are predicted in Phnom Penh and six provinces this week.

The provinces of Banteay Meanchey, Kandal, Kampong Thom, Pursat, Kampong Chhnang, and Kampong Speu have been placed on flood alert.

 

The worst-affected area is Banteay Meanchey, which has reported floodwaters of up to three meters, and authorities are still unsure of the flood's strength and scope, which will disturb people's lives, properties, and crops.

 

The southwest monsoon, which has impacted many regions of the Kingdom, particularly the coastal and low-lying areas, is blamed by authorities for the constant rain and flooding.

 

Despite the fact that floodwaters have flooded three districts in the province, no residents have been evacuated from their houses.

 

Lay Sothy, deputy director of the Banteay Meanchey Department of Water Resources and Meteorology, stated that if the water level increases to four meters, residents whose homes are adversely impacted will be forced to evacuate.

 

He also stated that the water levels in the Malai and Poipet districts have decreased, although Mongkul Borei was submerged in three metres of water yesterday.

 

The worst-affected district in Kandal province is Stung near Stung Prek Tnaot, which is prone to flash floods, according to the National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM). Residents there have learnt to adapt to the flood condition.

 

When contacted, NCDM officials stated that they are prepared for any eventuality, but that the situation is now controllable and under control due to the low river water level.

 

According to NCDM vice-president Nhek Ban Kheng of Kampong Thom province, floodwaters have already hit five districts, with the water level rising in floods in the Stung Sen River, which are being actively watched.

 

Khut Usaphea, the Permanent Secretary of NCDM in Pursat province, said that they have dealt with flash floods in the districts of Veal Veng, Kandieng, Pursat, and Phnom Kravanh and are prepared to deal with them again if they arise, especially if they come from the mountains.

 

The flood has yet to impact Kampong Chhnang province, according to NCDM vice-president Am Sophea, because the Tonle Sap Lake serves as a water catchment area.

 

“If the lake level rises and overflows, we will be severely harmed. If it happens, we'll be ready to deal with it,” he continued.

 

Cheap Horm, director of the Kampong Speu Provincial Water Resources and Meteorology Department, warned that if the rain continues, the Baset region will suffer because the local reservoir is full and many people live along the river.