Poipet City Flooded by Heavy Rains and Water Inflow from Thailand

Poipet City, located in northwestern Cambodia and bordering Thailand, has been severely affected by widespread flooding due to continuous heavy rainfall and water inflow from Thailand's Sa Kaeo Province on September 23rd and 24th. Authorities worked through the night to secure residents, prepare for potential evacuations, and manage drainage. Local residents report that roads, schools, and some homes in low-lying areas have been inundated by several days of intermittent rain. Concerns are particularly high regarding the water flowing in from Thailand, as Thai authorities have begun draining floodwaters from their side, potentially exacerbating the existing inundation in Poipet. Residents facing the threat of further flooding are already preparing to move their belongings and goods to safety. Poipet City Governor, Mr. Kiet Hul, stated on the morning of September 24th that while specific damage assessments are ongoing, authorities and government task forces are working to mitigate the impact by opening water channels and implementing technical drainage solutions. He also confirmed that officials are monitoring residents in vulnerable riverside areas and preparing for their relocation to safe high ground. The governor attributed the current flooding to the overnight rainfall and the water originating from Thailand. In addition to Poipet City and its border-adjacent areas, the cities of Serey Sophorn and the districts of Phnom Srouk and Mongkol Borei have also reported flooding of roads and homes due to heavy rains.