Motorists drive up Bokor Mountain recently. Hong Menea
The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology cautions the public as Cambodia anticipates a moderate to strong northeast monsoon, bringing cooling conditions to the highlands and robust winds and waves along the coast for some days.
As per the ministry's forecast issued on November 19, the highlands are expected to experience temperatures ranging from 19 to 29°C (degree Celsius). Winds from the northeast will blow at a speed of seven to nine metres per second (m/s).
Coastal regions will witness minimum temperatures of 24-26°C and maximum temperatures of 28-30°C.
In the lowlands, temperatures will range from 22 to 31°C. Winds from the northeast are forecasted at three to five m/s during this period.
"In the highlands, encompassing Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Mondulkiri and Ratanakkiri provinces, mornings see a continued cooling trend with a minimum temperature of 19-20°C. Meanwhile, the coastal areas, facing the sea surface, are expected to encounter strong winds and waves measuring 1.00-1.50 meters high," the forecast outlined.
Preah Sihanouk provincial governor Kuoch Chamroeun issued a directive urging provincial authorities and armed forces, particularly those overseeing waterways and seas, to remain vigilant. He requested a temporary halt to travel, including tourism, transport, and fishing.
"Authorities, kindly communicate to the fishing community, the tourism association and the water transport association the need to temporarily suspend travel on the sea or to islands during this risky situation. Once conditions improve, operations can resume as usual," he said.
He advised authorities, provincial leaders and relevant forces to permit boats with large engines to transport passengers from the island to the mainland once the weather conditions improve.
"For fishermen and cargo boats, a temporary suspension is essential, awaiting updates on the changing weather conditions. Relevant authorities should also ensure the management and inspection of boats, equipped with proper safety equipment for all tourists in need of travel," he urged.
