Two homes were completely destroyed, while 35 others and four schools were damaged, by heavy rain and strong winds in the western province of Pailin on Friday.

The schools remained open despite the damage, said Seng Vanntha, deputy chief of Pailin district.

The damage was estimated to be at around $15,000, with properties mostly suffering roof and fence damage. About 50 fruit trees were also knocked down by the gusty winds, Vanntha said.

“When we saw the rain, we were happy because it was going to bring water for our people, but the strong winds caused so much damage,” he said.

“Last year, we also experienced a natural disaster, but it wasn’t as bad as this one.”

The provincial Red Cross yesterday morning, along with the provincial governor, went to the damaged areas and provided food to the affected families.

The Red Cross also gave 70,000 riel (about $17) to around 30 of the affected families, Vanntha said. Tents were also provided.

The provincial chapter of a youth group is expected to start rebuilding the two destroyed homes in Pailin district today, he added.

Lim Sambo, Boyakha commune chief, said six families in his commune were affected by the storm.

The gusty winds were between 12 to 15 metres per second, said Chan Youttha, a spokesman for the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology.