04 May 2022 | 03:54 AM UTC
Cambodia: Adverse weather forecast across Cambodia through at least May 10
Severe weather forecast across Cambodia through at least May 10. Flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across Cambodia through at least May 10, bringing a threat of flash flooding and overflowing rivers across the region. As of May 4, the Cambodia Department of Meteorology has issued yellow (lowest level on a three-tier scale) thunderstorm warnings across Kampot, Kep, Koh Kong, Oddar Meanchey, Preah Sihanouk, Siem Reap, and Tboung Khmum provinces May 4 and over Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Oddar Meanchey, and Siem Reap provinces May 5-6. Orange thunderstorm warnings are in place across the rest of the country through May 6. Thunderstorms with isolated heavy rain are forecast over most of Cambodia. High waves of 1-1.5 meters (3-5 feet) are forecast May 4, while 1.5-2 meter (5-6.5 foot) waves are likely May 5-6.
Authorities have warned of possible flooding in Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speu, and Kandal provinces and along the Stung Prek Tnort River, affecting parts of Phnom Penh. Several reservoirs in Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speu, and Kandal provinces and Phnom Penh Autonomous Municipality are full; heavy rain since April 30 prompted authorities to open dams in Kampong Chhnang and Kampong Speu provinces. Floodwaters in Banteay Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces have receded.
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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel 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 intermittent flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region, including but not limited to Phnom Penh International (PNH) and Siem Reap International (REP) airports, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts in the Gulf of Thailand if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.
Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.
Advice
Seek updated information on weather and related disruptions, including road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential freight delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices if prolonged electricity outages occur.
