Cambodia floods force mass evacuations

Severe flooding has displaced thousands across Cambodia, with more than 2,900 families forced to leave their homes as rising waters sweep through 10 provinces. Officials say over 25,000 families have been affected, with nearly 12,600 hectares of rice paddies damaged.

Soth Kim Kolmony, spokesperson for the National Committee for Disaster Management, confirmed that the deluge stems largely from heavy local rainfall rather than the Mekong River, which remains below alert levels. Forecasts suggest the rains will continue until the end of September, prolonging the crisis.

Authorities in Banteay Meanchey have suspended heavy vehicle traffic on several national and provincial roads to protect infrastructure and ensure commuter safety. In Battambang, water levels at the Sek Sak Dam have risen sharply, prompting officials to open sluice gates to relieve pressure. Residents along the Sangke River have been urged to remain vigilant.

Meanwhile, Siem Reap has seen torrential rain from Kulen Mountain, raising flood risks for the Angkor Archaeological Park and the city itself. APSARA’s water management teams are working around the clock to regulate flows and safeguard cultural heritage sites.

Cambodia is no stranger to seasonal floods, which regularly strike between July and October. Last year, 19 lives were lost. This year’s crisis underscores the vulnerability of rural communities and the strain on infrastructure as climate pressures intensify.

With more rain expected, officials warn that the situation could worsen before it improves, urging residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert and cooperate with emergency measures.

-2026-09-27