Cambodia: High temperatures forecast across most of the country through at least March 18 /update 1

A heatwave is likely to persist across most of Cambodia through at least March 18. As of early March 8, the Cambodia Department of Meteorology has issued orange (middle level on a three-tier scale) heat warnings across northern and northwestern parts of the country through at least March 10; temperatures of 37-40 C (99-104 F) are forecast. Yellow heat warnings are in place over southern, southeastern, and eastern Cambodia over the same period; temperatures of 35-37 C (95-99 F) are forecast. The high temperatures are forecast to persist through at least March 18. Officials could update or expand the alerts over the coming days as conditions change.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also threaten vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers' hospitalization.

Very high temperatures may damage road surfaces, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur as very high temperatures put more stress on vehicles, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.