Flooding in Phnom Penh, Cambodia is a recurring problem that affects many areas of the city during the rainy season. Due to factors such as inadequate drainage infrastructure, uncontrolled urban development, and seasonal monsoons, certain parts of the city are more prone to flooding than others. As an expat or tourist living and staying in Phnom Penh, it’s important to understand the causes and impacts of flooding in the city, as well as how to prepare and stay safe if you encounter floodwaters. In this article, we’ll provide a guide to help you navigate Phnom Penh’s floods with greater awareness and caution this season.
Causes of Flooding in Phnom Penh
Lack of Drainage Infrastructure
Phnom Penh’s drainage infrastructure has yet to keep up with its rapid urbanization. The city’s sewer and drainage systems are outdated, clogged, and unable to handle the amount of stormwater runoff during the rainy season. Many roads and neighborhoods in the city need proper storm drains.
Uncontrolled Urban Development
Unregulated construction and development have also exacerbated flooding in Phnom Penh. New buildings are often erected without regard for stormwater management, blocking natural waterways and further straining the city’s inadequate drainage systems. In many cases, infill development has been allowed in flood-prone areas like wetlands and along riverbanks.
Seasonal Monsoons
Phnom Penh’s tropical monsoon climate also contributes to seasonal flooding. It rains a lot in the city from May to October. The heaviest rains usually fall in September and October, which are the wettest months of the year. Major downpours can overwhelm drainage systems and cause localized flash flooding, especially in low-lying parts of the city.
Riverine Flooding
Flooding along the Tonlé Sap and Mekong Rivers poses another threat. Within the Mekong Basin, when it rains a lot, the rivers can rise a lot and flood into the city. Riverine flooding tends to be more severe when the rivers are already swollen from a particularly wet rainy season. Rising sea levels and more extreme weather associated with climate change are projected to exacerbate riverine flooding in Phnom Penh over the coming decades.
![lightningoverphnompenhstockpackunsplash arisecambodiacom Lightning over Phnom PenhFlooding in Phnom Penh](https://arisecambodia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/lightning-over-phnom-penh-stockpack-unsplash-300x200.jpg)
Areas Prone to Flooding in the City
The rainy season in Phnom Penh lasts from May to October and is a tropical monsoon climate. During these months, certain parts of the city are susceptible to flooding.
The Tonle Sap riverfront area, including Sisowath Quay, is at high risk of flooding during heavy rains. The low-lying land and inadequate drainage infrastructure mean water levels can rise quickly, even with moderate rainfall. If you live or work near the riverfront, be prepared for potential evacuations and road closures. Stock up on emergency supplies and have an exit plan in place.
Much of the central city also faces flooding troubles, especially the areas around Central Market and Olympic Market. The dense population and lack of sufficient drainage has made these neighbourhoods notorious for flood damage during monsoons. If living in these areas, raise valuable possessions off the floor and be ready to relocate them to higher ground.
Newer developments on the outskirts of Phnom Penh were often constructed without adequate flood mitigation planning. Satellite cities like Por Sen Chey, Pur Sen Sok and Chom Chao frequently report flooding that cuts off road access and damages property. Carefully research the flood history of these areas before purchasing or renting there.
In summary, if you live or do business in Phnom Penh, be aware of the city’s flood-prone hotspots. Develop an emergency action plan, safeguard possessions, and prepare for potential disruptions during the rainy season. With the effects of climate change intensifying, flooding may become an even greater concern in the coming decades. Staying informed and taking proactive precautions can help minimize the impacts.
Preparing for Floods as an Expat
Have an Emergency Plan in Place
As an expat living in Phnom Penh, it is critical to prepare an emergency plan in case of flooding. Know how you will evacuate your home or workplace and have essential supplies on hand like food, water, medications, a flashlight, batteries, a battery-powered radio, first aid kit, cash, and important documents. Rehearse and practice your emergency plan with your family.
Stay Informed About Flood Warnings
Monitor local media, government websites and social media for flood warnings and evacuation orders. The Cambodian Ministry of Water Resources regularly issues flood bulletins on rainfall, water levels, and risks of flooding. Be ready to act quickly if told to evacuate.
Prepare Your Home
Make sure drains and gutters around your home are clear to allow water to flow freely. Install waterproof doors or barriers to prevent water from entering the home. Move essential items to higher floors and pack an emergency bag in case you have to leave quickly. Review your insurance policies to understand what kind of coverage you may have in a flood event.
Help Others in Your Community
Check on neighbors and others in your expat community, especially the elderly or disabled, and see if they need help preparing for potential flooding. Volunteer with local organizations to help fill and distribute sandbags or assist in other ways. Build relationships within your neighborhood so you can support each other during emergencies.
Living in a flood-prone area like Phnom Penh requires extra vigilance. By planning ahead, staying informed, preparing your home, and helping your community, you will be in the best position to stay safe during the rainy season. Constantly monitoring the situation will help ensure you have sufficient time to evacuate if told to do so by local authorities. With the proper precautions taken, you can feel more at ease living as an expat in Cambodia during the flood season.
What to Do During a Flood
If there is flooding in Phnom Penh, it is very important to stay calm and handle the situation properly. Evacuate immediately if told to do so by local authorities. They will direct you to emergency shelters, where you will be safe and have access to essential resources. Be aware of evacuation orders, as flooding can intensify rapidly.
Gather emergency supplies in case you have to evacuate quickly. Food, water, medicine, a radio that runs on batteries, flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit, blankets, toiletries, cash, and important papers in a waterproof container should all be ready to go.
Tune in to local media for instructions and updates. Radio, TV, and social media will broadcast news about the flooding, affected areas, evacuation orders, and locations of emergency shelters. Follow all instructions carefully.
Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock you over, and two feet of water can sweep away vehicles. Floodwaters also often contain dangerous debris and chemicals.
Disconnect all electrical devices if told to do so by authorities. Do not use appliances or electronics if they have been in contact with floodwaters, as this could lead to electrocution or fire.
Check on others who may need help evacuating. The elderly, disabled, and children may require assistance in evacuating or transporting emergency supplies. Work with local charities and authorities to ensure vulnerable populations receive aid.
Photograph and document any flood damage to your property for insurance claims. However, do not re-enter evacuated areas until told it is safe to do so by officials. Your safety must come before assessing property damage.
By following instructions from local authorities and preparing in advance for emergency situations, you can remain as safe as possible during flood events in Phnom Penh. Care for yourself and others in your community, avoid dangerous situations, and allow the local government to guide evacuation and rescue efforts. With cooperation, the impacts of flooding can be minimized.
![riversidesunsetstockpackunsplash arisecambodiacom Riverside SunsetFlooding in Phnom Penh](https://arisecambodia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/riverside-sunset-stockpack-unsplash-300x217.jpg)
Flooding in Phnom Penh FAQs
What areas of Phnom Penh are most prone to flooding?
During the rainy season, from May to October, some low-lying parts of Phnom Penh are more likely to flood. The districts most at risk include Chamkar Mon, Daun Penh, Prampi Makara, and Sen Sok. RiverWithin these districts, the areas around lakes and rivers like Boeung Kak Lake, the Tonle Sap river, and the Mekong River tend to experience the worst flooding. Expatriates living in ground-level housing in these neighborhoods should take extra precautions.
What causes the flooding in Phnom Penh?
The primary causes of flooding in Phnom Penh are heavy monsoon rains, poor drainage infrastructure, and the city’s location at the confluence of multiple rivers. Phnom Penh receives up to 1500 mm of rain during the wet season, overwhelming the city’s limited drainage canals and sewer systems. Additionally, the Tonle Sap, Mekong, and Bassac rivers all flow through Phnom Penh before merging, and their water levels rise substantially during the rainy season.
How can I prepare for and handle flooding in Phnom Penh?
There are several steps you can take to prepare for and mitigate the impact of Phnom Penh floods:
• Choose housing on an upper floor or with a raised foundation. Ground-level housing is most at risk of damage.
• Make sure you have food, water, flashlights, a radio that runs on batteries, and a first aid kit on hand in case of an emergency.
• Ensure important documents, electronics, and other valuables are stored in waterproof containers or moved to higher ground.
• Follow instructions from local authorities regarding evacuations or road closures. Do not attempt to drive or walk through flood waters.
•Once floods have receded, dry and clean up your home quickly to avoid water damage and health issues from standing water. Disinfect and repair as needed.
• Consider flood insurance if it is available for your property. Most regular insurance plans do not cover damage from floods.
By preparing in advance and following recommended safety measures, the impacts of flooding in Phnom Penh can be minimised. However, due to inadequate infrastructure, some level of flooding may be unavoidable. Expatriates should weigh the risks of the rainy season when deciding where to live in the city.
You might also want to read:
Phnom Penh City Tour: Exploring Cambodia’s Charming Capital
Living in cambodia pros and cons: The honest guide