On September 28, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet traveled to Banteay Meanchey province to inspect the flooding on the ground, console affected residents, and assess the impact of the disaster on local livelihoods and production.
During the visit, Hun Manet heard briefings from the relevant departments and demanded that safeguarding people's lives be placed as the top priority, that changes in the disaster situation be closely monitored, and that evacuation and relief measures be carried out in a timely manner.
On the same day, Cambodia's National Committee for Disaster Management reported that, affected by flash floods triggered by sustained heavy rainfall, 10 provinces across the country have been hit, with Battambang, Banteay Meanchey and Siem Reap suffering the most severe damage.
As of now, the floods have affected approximately 44,900 households, of which 3,685 have been urgently evacuated to higher ground. The flooding has also submerged more than 40,000 houses and affected nearly 50,000 hectares of rice fields.
The relevant departments have completed rescue and emergency preparations, and will dispatch rescue forces and supplies based on changes in local conditions. Hun Manet also urged the relevant departments to strengthen coordination to minimize losses to people's lives and property caused by the floods.
Forecasts from the meteorological department show that, affected by the outer circulation of a typhoon, the heavy rainfall across most of Cambodia is expected to persist until September 30. Local authorities have reminded the public to closely monitor the weather and official warnings, and to make flood prevention and safe evacuation preparations in advance.
