Cambodia: Floodwaters displace thousands in northeast July 26 /update 1

Event

Thousands of Cambodians evacuated on Thursday, July 26, from the Sekong River valley in the northeastern province of Stung Treng as floodwaters from the failed dam in southern Laos reached villages downstream. Evacuations have focused on the Siem Pang district, where about 25 percent of the population has been dislocated. Water reached flood stages of nearly 12 meters (39 feet) and, according to a Cambodian government spokesman Thursday afternoon, there are no signs of receding water in the near-future. However, the multi-governmental body Mekong River Commission (MRC) predicted that provincial capitals of Stung Treng and Kratie will not be severely affected by the floodwaters. The floodwaters from the failed dam have killed at least 26 people in Laos and destroyed the homes of over 6,000 others.

Context

A hydropower dam collapsed on Monday, July 23, in Attapeu province in southern Laos, causing a flash flood that has left 6000 people homeless. Several people have reportedly been killed while hundreds remain missing as of July 24.

Cambodia has experienced heavy rains and flooding since the start of monsoon season, which typically begins in May and lasts through November.

Advice

Individuals in the above areas are advised to avoid any areas directly impacted by flooding, monitor the situation, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. potential evacuation orders). Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tend to rise after periods of heavy rains.