El Niño Threatens Cambodia with Drought and Floods; Government Prepares Response

Cambodia is experiencing the effects of the El Niño phenomenon, characterized by rising sea surface temperatures in the central Pacific Ocean near the equator, leading to global atmospheric changes. According to Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology, Tau Chheangda, this phenomenon is causing severe drought in some parts of the country, while other regions, including coastal and western provinces like Koh Kong, Preah Sihanouk, Kampot, Pursat, and Battambang, are facing heavy rainfall and flash floods. Battambang province, in particular, is experiencing a severe water shortage affecting over 100,000 hectares of agricultural land. Meanwhile, areas like Koh Kong and Preah Sihanouk are witnessing torrential downpours that have led to flash floods, impacting transportation and tourism. However, the Minister assured that direct threats to human life are being mitigated through timely interventions and collaboration with relevant authorities. The Ministry has already formulated plans and strategies to combat the El Niño phenomenon. These include preparing water pumps to assist drought-stricken areas with nearby water sources and undertaking repairs and improvements to irrigation canals of all levels to ensure efficient water delivery. The Sek Sak multi-purpose reservoir, with a capacity exceeding 100 million cubic meters, is being utilized to store rainwater from the Cardamom Mountains and release it into the Stung Sangke river system. This extensive irrigation network, spanning nearly 1,000 kilometers, is designed to distribute water, although it may take up to 10 days for water to reach the furthest fields. In collaboration with local authorities, the National Committee for Disaster Management, and other stakeholders, the Ministry is readying intervention and rescue teams for immediate deployment during emergencies, such as floods or droughts. This coordinated effort aims to ensure "water security" to support "food security" for citizens nationwide, especially in areas lacking adequate water sources. Projections indicate that the El Niño phenomenon will continue to affect Cambodia until August 2026, leading to higher temperatures, prolonged dry seasons, and a scarcity of irrigation water. Citizens are advised to carefully assess water availability and plan their agricultural activities accordingly. Planting in areas with no reliable water sources is discouraged due to the high risk of crop failure. Source: CPP Cambodia