Forty people have died from lightning strikes in Cambodia during the first nine months of 2025, according to the National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM). The figure marks a 26% drop from the same period last year, yet highlights the persistent danger posed by extreme weather across the country.

 

Among the victims were 13 women and 13 children. In addition to the fatalities, 58 people were injured and 71 cattle killed between January and September. The worst-hit provinces include Siem Reap, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, and Preah Sihanouk, all known for their rural communities and open landscapes.

 

Soth Kim Kolmony, spokesperson for the NCDM, urged residents—especially in rural areas—to seek shelter during storms. “People should stay indoors or in safe structures when there is rain or thunder,” he said.

 

The lightning deaths form part of a broader pattern of climate-related casualties. Fires have claimed 27 lives so far this year, while storms have killed nine. The figures reflect growing concerns about the impact of increasingly volatile weather in Southeast Asia.

 

Cambodia’s vulnerability to natural hazards has prompted calls for improved early warning systems and public education on weather safety. While the overall number of lightning-related deaths has declined, officials warn that complacency could reverse the trend.

 

The NCDM continues to monitor weather patterns and coordinate with local authorities to improve disaster response. As climate instability intensifies across the region, the need for preparedness remains urgent.

 

-2025-10-03

Pardon my ignorance, but is there a system of weather alerts in Cambodia regarding thunder storms?  AI tell me there is, but something isn't working well for this number of people to die.  Sad.

Same here in Thailand. In rural areas mostly.

 

And why is that? Because people haven't been educated about how lightning strikes anything that stands out from the surrounding area - eg a peasant working in the middle of a large paddy field, or taking shelter from the storm by standing under a tall tree at the edge of the paddy field. And their houses are not grounded ...

35 minutes ago, Watawattana said:

Pardon my ignorance, but is there a system of weather alerts in Cambodia regarding thunder storms?  AI tell me there is, but something isn't working well for this number of people to die.  Sad.

For one thing, you hear thunder, move to a safer area if you are in a rice paddy.  Go stand under a tree.