Cambodia Forecasts Rain, Thunderstorms, and Gusty Winds Across 70% of the Country

The Ministry of Water Resources in Cambodia announced on September 10th that rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds is expected to cover 60-70% of the country. According to the ministry's statement, a low-pressure system passing over the Bay of Bengal, Andaman Sea, and South China Sea is influencing the southwest monsoon blowing over the Mekong River basin and Cambodia. This weather pattern is projected to persist from September 10th to 12th. Regional forecasts are as follows: In the plains, the minimum temperature is 25°C and the maximum is 36°C. Winds from the southwest and southeast will blow at an average speed of 3 meters per second. Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Poipet, Kampong Chhnang, Siem Reap, Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, Tbong Khmum, Prey Veng, Svay Rieng, Takeo, Kandal provinces, and Phnom Penh capital city are expected to experience rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds covering 60% of their areas. In the highlands, the minimum temperature is 24°C and the maximum is 35°C. Winds from the southwest and west will blow at an average speed of 5 meters per second. Kampong Speu, Pailin, Udor Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Kratié, Stung Treng, Ratanakiri, Mondulkiri provinces, the Dangrek Mountains, and the Cardamom Mountains region are expected to experience rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds covering 70% of their areas. In coastal areas, the minimum temperature is 25°C and the maximum is 34°C. Winds from the southwest and southeast will blow at an average speed of 3 meters per second. Koh Kong, Preah Sihanouk, Kampot, Kep provinces, and the Bokor Mountain region are expected to experience rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds covering 50% of their areas. Sea waves are expected to range from an average minimum of 0.50 meters to a maximum of 1.70 meters. This forecast raises concerns about the impact on agriculture, infrastructure, and daily life in Cambodia, particularly regarding potential crop damage, flooding in low-lying areas, and disruptions to transportation networks.