Siem reap: Persistent heavy rainfall from a low-pressure system has triggered severe flooding in three communes of Puok district, Siem Reap province, submerging villages, damaging critical infrastructure, and destroying vast areas of rice crops, local officials reported today.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Puok District Governor Mr. Sin Chanthol confirmed the extent of the damage following a morning inspection of the affected areas. The communes of Trey Nhor, Reul, and Keo Por have borne the brunt of the flooding, with waters impacting 19 villages and 255 households.
The floodwaters have inundated two health centres, two school buildings, and a local administrative police post. A pagoda and a party office were also flooded. The disaster has severely damaged transport networks, submerging two asphalt roads and disrupting 30 rural roads totaling over 15.8 kilometres. Agriculture has suffered a significant blow, with an estimated 176 hectares of rice crops damaged by the standing water.
Governor Sin Chanthol identified obstructed water channels as a key factor exacerbating the flooding. He instructed local authorities to immediately investigate blockages caused by inadequate culvert installations and debris. "Small culvert diameters and obstructions in the canal systems are impeding drainage and worsening the situation for downstream areas," he stated.
The District Governor also directed health officials to secure medical equipment and vital documents. He urged medical staff to partner with local leaders to disseminate critical information on hygiene and health practices to prevent waterborne diseases within affected communities. Emergency response efforts are ongoing to manage the immediate impacts and mitigate further damage as the region endures continued rainfall.