September 20, 2024
PHNOM PENH – At least 2,300 households and over 1,000 hectares of rice fields in four provinces have been affected by flooding, as Cambodia experiences heavy rainfall and storms due to a low atmospheric pressure front.
In the past few days, heavy downpours have caused flooding in parts of Kratie, Stung Treng, Preah Sihanouk and Tbong Khmum provinces, according to Soth Kimkolmony, spokesperson for the National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM), speaking on September 19.
Some 2,393 households and 1,295 hectares of rice fields have been affected, the majority of them in Kratie.
“The rainfall over the past few days has been significant in some areas, causing flooding in certain provinces. However, the situation is not severe … there have been no reported fatalities or injuries among the affected residents,” said Kimkolmony, adding that in several areas, the floodwaters have already begun to recede.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Hun Manet instructed all relevant institutions to intensify their efforts to support those affected by the floods.
“Capital and provincial authorities should increase their vigilance and continue to monitor the situation closely,” he said.
They must respond promptly in the event of flooding in their respective areas of responsibility, with a particular focus on protecting the lives and property of those who are affected,” he added.
As head of government, he ordered the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and the National Police to deploy any resources needed for rescue operations. In addition, he instructed the NCDM to continuously coordinate with provincial authorities, designate safe places, and prepare resources and intervention forces for emergency rescue work.
The prime minister also instructed the Ministry of Economy and Finance and other relevant institutions to prepare food and supplies that can be distributed to affected residents, upon requests from the provincial authorities.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries were also told to prepare rice seed and any other necessary equipment to support the recovery of damaged crops, should there be any significant impact.
The NCDM reported that its officials at all levels are closely monitoring the flood situation. Provincial disaster management committees have issued guidelines on preventive measures and recommended flood responses to local authorities, relevant agencies and the public.
The floods also caused damage to the reservoir dam of the Anco Company in Koh Kong province’s Kean Kralanh village, in Kiri Sakor district’s Phnei Meas commune, on Wednesday.
Local authorities evacuated three households to safety, with food, supplies and financial support provided to them, according to the provincial administration.