Cambodia, Vietnam: Adverse weather forecast across the region through at least July 8

Event

Thunderstorms, strong winds, large waves, landslides, and flooding are forecast across Cambodia and Vietnam through at least July 8. The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology in Cambodia has issued orange-level warnings for thunderstorms across portions of Battam Bang, Bonteay Meanchey, Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speu, Kampong Thom, Kandal, Kratie, Phnom Penh, Prey Veng, Pursat, Svay Rieng, Takeo, Tbong Khmum, Oddar Meanchey, Mondul Kiri, Ratanak Kiri, Siem Reap, Preah Vihear, and Stung Treng provinces. Additionally, yellow-level warnings for strong winds, thunderstorms, and large waves are in place across the remainder of the affected area. The Vietnam National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has warned of thunderstorms, heavy rain, strong winds, hail, flooding, and possible tornadoes nationwide. Warnings are also in place for flooding in Hanoi City; 2-4 cm (0.8-1.6 inches) of rain is possible with isolated maximums of up to 6cm (2.4 inches). A flood warning is in effect for the rivers in the Northeast, Northwest, and Red River Delta regions. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Gulf of Thailand and South China Sea if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology, Cambodia
Vietnam National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (Vietnamese)