Cambodia Braces for Increased Rainfall as Tropical Storms Influence Monsoon

Cambodia is not in the path of Tropical Storm Maysak, but the storm is expected to strengthen the southwest monsoon and bring rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across the country from July 3 to 12, according to the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology. In an announcement released this morning, the Ministry said a low-pressure system over the western Pacific Ocean has developed into Tropical Storm No. 10, named Maysak (T2610), affecting weather patterns over the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Sea, the South China Sea, the Mekong Basin, the Gulf of Thailand, and Cambodia. The storm, named by Cambodia, is forecast to dissipate on July 6, while Tropical Storm Bavi (T2609) is expected to continue influencing the region until July 12. In the plains, including Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Pursat, Kampong Chhnang, Siem Reap, Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, Thbong Khmum, Prey Veng, Kandal, Takeo, Svay Rieng, and Phnom Penh, rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms is expected to cover around 50 percent of the area. Highland provinces, including Kampong Speu, Pailin, Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Kratie, Stung Treng, Rattanakiri, Mondulkiri, the Dangrek mountain range, and the Cardamom Mountains, could experience rainfall covering about 60 percent of their territory. Meanwhile, coastal provinces – Koh Kong, Preah Sihanouk, Kampot, Kep, and the Bokor mountain area – are expected to receive heavier rainfall, with coverage reaching 70 percent. Sea waves are forecast to range from 0.5 metres to 1.75 metres in height. The Ministry urged the public to remain vigilant against heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds, particularly those travelling by land and water, and said it would continue to monitor and provide updates on weather developments. By C. Nika