Ministry predicts widespread flooding

Officials inspect a flooded section of National Road 5 in Battambang province earlier this year. Photo supplied

Thu, 28 September 2017

Khouth Sophak Chakrya

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The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology yesterday issued flood warnings for 16 provinces and Phnom Penh in anticipation of an incoming low-pressure system expected to bring torrential rains.

The Ministry’s forecast predicts heavy rain, expected to last until October 3, affecting Siem Reap, Kandal and Battambang, among other provinces.

Ros Savin, a resident of Phnom Penh’s Meanchey district, said three more days of rain would force his family from their home. “The water on the road in front of the house just receded, but if it rains for three to four days in a row as forecasted, I can only lock the house and bring my family to live at my relative’s,” Savin said.

Savin complained that flooding in that area is a constant concern, in part due to trash blocking the canal.

Meanwhile, officials in Oddar Meanchey province’s Anlong Veng district said the water level at the Ta Mok Dam had already reached concerning levels.

“If it rains heavily for three or four days . . . many houses located along the dam, as well as some roads, will be submerged again,” said District Governor Horchin Virakyuth.