The Stung Treng provincial disaster management committee warned the public, especially those living and doing business along the Mekong, Sekong, Sesan and Srepok Rivers to take extra precautions as water levels continue to rise.

In an August 11 notice, the committee said that the situation of rising river levels could lead to extensive flooding.

Citing the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology, the provincial disaster management committee confirmed that in recent days, the continuous rain has covered the entire country, especially Stung Treng province and the upper parts of the Mekong, Sekong, Sesan and Srepok Rivers.

“All people, especially those living and making a living along these rivers and other vulnerable areas, should take precautions in case of heavy rain-induced flash floods. Rising water levels may possibly cause floods in some areas,” it said.

The notice added that in case of any emergency situation occurring, it will be necessary to provide urgent information to village chiefs and local authorities so that they will be able to provide assistance as rapidly as possible.

The Srepok River water levels surpassed their emergency declaration level and flooded houses in 13 villages in 3 communes of Lumphat district in Ratanakkiri province and more than 300 families were evacuated to safety.