Water Resources Minister: Areas Around Phnom Penh Not Yet at Risk of Flooding, but Vigilance Needed as Storm Affects Cambodia

As of September 24, 2026, the areas surrounding Phnom Penh were not yet at risk of flooding. This was stated by Thor Chetha, Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology, as he led a team to inspect actual water conditions along the Prek Tnaot River embankments, from the 7 January Dam (Kampong Tuol), Canal 78 and Tonle Bati to the Prek Kong area near Techo International Airport, in Kandal and Takeo provinces.
Although water conditions remained under control, the minister reminded local authorities, technical officials and all relevant institutions not to be complacent. They must remain prepared, with personnel and response resources ready to act promptly in the event of flooding, especially flash floods caused by rainfall.
Water flows must be monitored closely, including water levels, rainfall and flows both upstream and downstream of the Prek Tnaot River.
Sluice gates must be managed effectively, with opening and closing based on proper technical procedures to prevent flooding and reduce potential impacts.
This heightened vigilance comes as Cambodia is affected by the low-pressure system associated with the 26th storm, Surigae, from the Pacific Ocean, bringing continuing rainfall accompanied by thunder, lightning and gusty winds in some areas.
By: Pai Sokhim