Rain and dark clouds seen in Phnom Penh on June 27. Hong Menea
The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology has warned people to be vigilant about rapidly changing weather in the coming week, noting that the Kingdom will experience light to moderate rain mix with thunder, lightning and strong wind as well from June 28 to July 4.
The June 27 notice explained that a low pressure system that is extending over the Mekong Basin in Thailand and Laos, and the moderate southwest monsoon winds, mean the central lowlands will see minimum temperatures of 24-26C and maximums of 33-35C. The area will also experience moderate to heavy rainfall, with thunder, lightning and strong winds in some places.
The highlands can expect minimum temperatures of 24-26C, with maximums of 34-36C. They will also receive light to moderate rain, mixed with thunderstorms and strong winds.
Coastal regions will see minimum temperatures of 25-27C and highs of 32-34C, and will see light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and strong winds as well.
“The ministry would like to make the public aware of these possible conditions, and urge them to remain alert,” said the notice.
Stung Treng Provincial Hall spokesman Men Kong said the local authorities are always prepared and ready to respond to emergencies and disasters, especially floods, strong winds and other weather-related occurrences.
He noted that the authorities have prepared emergency services as well as materials and food supplies to assist the victims of any natural disasters.
“We are also educating the population about the potential consequences of climate change, so they can prepare and are ready to protect themselves,” he said.
He added that the province has not recorded any deaths due to natural disasters in the first six months of the year, though there had been some injuries and property damage.
Long Dimanche, deputy governor of coastal Preah Sihanouk province, said that with many islands and people who depend on fishing to earn their livelihoods, the authorities always advise the local population about any weather warnings that are issued.
“Islanders and fishermen are particularly at risk, so we do not hesitate to prohibit sailings in high seas, and have rescue teams standing by,” he said.
“It is important to share information. When there are high winds forecast, we halt ferry sailings and stop islanders and fishermen from setting out to sea,” he added.
Dimanche said people had been stricken by natural disasters in the past, but the authorities had generally been fore-warned by forecasts, and were prepared to intervene and affect a rescue if one was required.
