SIEM REAP: One person was killed by lightning and at least another ten injured as severe thunderstorms hit Siem Reap province last night, March 16.
Siem Reap deputy police chief Sok Pisan stated that at least two people suffered serious injuries, while the fatality was recorded in Svay Leu district.
The storms struck ten districts across the province, and damaged more than 300 homes. The authorities are currently compiling a report on the incident,” he told The Post.
Numerous trees were felled by high winds, including inside the Angkor Archaeological Park, and authorities were working hard to clear the fallen debris and restore accessibility, added Pisan.
The APSARA National Authority (ANA) announced that trees within the Angkor park fell at around 5pm.
“Strong winds in the Angkor heritage site caused several trees to fall across roads. ANA teams immediately began operations to remove the fallen trees and restore traffic flow,” it said, via a statement.
There were four reported lightning strikes, which resulted in four injuries and one fatality, according to National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM) spokesman Soth Kimkolmony.
Siem Reap provincial governor Prak Sophorn expressed condolences for the damage and losses caused by the storm.
The provincial administration, in cooperation with the Cambodian Red Cross in Siem Reap, is conducting assessments to provide assistance.
The governor also extended his gratitude to medical teams for their prompt care of the injured, as well as to the police force for their swift action in clearing roads and ensuring public safety.
The NCDM report stated that the February weather was not as hot as in 2024 due to the effects of La Niña and ENSO weather patterns. However, from mid-February onwards, temperatures gradually increased, reaching a peak of 37 degrees celsius.
Late last month, severe storms hit Kratie and Siem Reap provinces, as well as the coastal province of Preah Sihanouk, where marine travel and fishing activities were disrupted. Many homes also lost their roofs in high winds. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
