The Kandal Provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology has issued a warning over the water level in the Prek Tnaot River, warning people living near the Prek Tnaot River and in parts of Takhmao city, Kandal Province to remain alert.

A week of rain, thunder, lightning, and high winds starting from August 9 is forecasted by the Ministry of Water Resources.

Kandal deputy provincial governor Nou Peng Chandara stated on August 8 that provincial officials are already making arrangements to respond to the threat.

“We are preparing a safe place to help those affected avoid any accidents,” he assured.

He further advised the local authorities in the Prek Tnaot River delta to remain vigilant and communicate the risks to local residents.

“As authorities, we always manage these natural disasters to prevent them from harming people’s lives and homes,” he explained.

Chandara downplayed concerns over rising water levels in rivers and streams. According to him, this is not a significant concern since the province of Kampong Speu has managed the situation by controlling the sluice gates. When these gates are closed, the water levels in the rivers and canals are likely to drop.

A section of a road in Kampong Speu province was damaged by flood on July 31. VIE SAMNANG VIA FB

The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology reiterated the weather warnings in a statement on August 8, specifying the conditions for the week ahead, including rain, thunder, lightning, and high winds.

The ministry explained that Cambodia was mildly affected by low pressure but noted that from August 12, a weak low-pressure system will extend over northern Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam, accompanied by a moderate southwest monsoon.

“This will result in light to moderate rainfall in the central lowlands, mixed with thunder, lightning and low high winds. In the highlands, there may be light to moderate rain mixed with thunder and low high winds of the same degree,” the statement outlined.

Coastal areas are also predicted to experience similar weather patterns with moderate high winds.

A recent report by the National Committee for Disaster Management brings attention to the impact of weather-related incidents this year.

Between January and July, high winds, lightning strikes, and fires caused 90 deaths and 217 injuries.

With the forecasted weather conditions, the authorities’ warning underscores the importance of preparedness and caution among the affected communities.