At least three provinces had issued evacuation preparedness measures and called on residents to exercise heightened caution over potential flash flooding today, October 1, as heavy rains continue to fall across much of the Kingdom.
The Pursat provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology warned that the water level of the Pursat River has risen to emergency levels. Authorities recorded heavy rainfall in the Kravanh mountain range, the Arai River and the Steung Thom area, causing high water flow into the Pursat River.
“The runoff from upstream is expected to cause further rising water levels and potential flooding in the province,” it stated.
The department notified authorities at all levels and residents throughout the province — especially those living along the river and its tributaries — to increase caution and prepare safe locations for the evacuation of vulnerable communities.
Provincial governor Khoy Rida noted that the authorities are closely monitoring the situation. He called on residents to remain vigilant and safeguard their health by maintaining clean food, water and good hygiene.
The Kratie provincial administration also announced preparedness and response plans in anticipation of rising Mekong River floodwaters.
On October 1, the water level measured 21.66 metres. From October 2–4, the Mekong in Kratie is expected to continue rising to 21.97 meters — approaching the warning level of 22 meters and the emergency level of 23 meters.
The province continues to experience light to heavy rainfall with thunderstorms and strong winds. Due to these conditions, the administration has instructed all departments, city/district/commune authorities to pay close attention to water levels and exercise caution.
Authorities and relevant units — including the armed forces, city and district administrations, and commune-level officials — have been instructed to check budgets, equipment, boats, life rafts, vehicles and emergency teams to ensure they are prepared to conduct rapid response and rescue operations.
Local authorities are to prepare and clean existing public shelters and safe places to accommodate the possible evacuation of residents, belongings and livestock in a timely manner.
The provincial health department has been tasked with preparing ambulances and medical supplies. It has also caried out education campaigns to inform residents in shelters about the importance of sanitation, safe water, food and hygiene. The agriculture, forestry, and fisheries department is to cooperate with local authorities to monitor and collect data on impacts to crops and livestock relocated to safe areas, and organise vaccinations where needed.
The Tbong Khmum provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology has also issued a public notice calling for increased caution due to unusually heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, warning of potential flooding and associated hazards.
As of the morning of October 1, the Mekong River water level at Krouch Chhmar station stood at 11.70 metres, well above the danger level of 11.20 meters.
