High winds brought down several large trees in the Angkor Archaeological Park on March 16. ANA
The strong winds brought by the pre-monsoon rains that began earlier this month are likely to continue until May, officials have warned.
They have recommended caution.
Soth Kimkolmony, spokesperson for the National Committee for Disaster Management(NCDM), explained that the severe storms are liely to intensify in some parts of the Kingdom from mid-April.
“The pre-monsoon rains bring thunderstorms and strong winds, posing risks for Cambodia. Every year, these winds cause substantial damage, particularly to the homes of our citizens,” he noted.
In 2024, storms damaged and partly destroyed over 5,180 homes nationwide, causing seven deaths and injuring 39 people.
On March 16 this year, high winds impacted 33 districts across six provinces, damaging approximately 1,239 houses and injuring eight people. The worst-hit provinces included Siem Reap, Kratie, Battambang, Pailin, Tbong Khmum and Banteay Meanchey, with Siem Reap suffering the most severe impact.
At least two people were killed by lightning strikes amid the storms in Siem Reap and Battambang.
To mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions, the NCDM is working with relevant government institutions to strengthen monitoring systems, track wind directions and intensities, and provide early warnings to at-risk communities.
“It is crucial to enhance the early warning systems operated by the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology. This is especially important so they can track strong winds and provide timely alerts to the communities in their path,” Kimkolmony emphasised.
He noted that various other institutions are investigating the use of construction designs that can withstand storms.
“This is essential to minimise wind-related damages. In addition, people should prepare their homes before a storm hits by securing doors and windows for safety. This is an important awareness initiative we have been actively promoting,” he added.
The meteorology ministry has announced that from March 18 to 25, the pre-monsoon rains will weaken across Cambodia, before re-gathering strength until the end of the month.
Kolmony advised the public to stay indoors during strong winds, particularly in rooms without windows, and to avoid using electrical devices that could increase lightning-related risks.
The NCDM has urged all relevant institutions to closely monitor weather conditions to help reduce casualties and damage. This includes preparing the necessary resources to conduct emergency response operations.
Oeurng Chantha, undersecretary of state at the meteorology ministry, highlighted the important role played by the ministry’s automated meteorological stations in improving weather forecasting and timely public warnings.
He explained that meteorological data is vital for development across all sectors, including water resource management, agriculture, aviation, maritime transport, tourism, industry, healthcare and infrastructure.
Additionally, it plays a key role in disaster management by providing early warnings for storms, floods, droughts and other extreme weather conditions.
