The death toll as a result of this year’s seasonal floods has continued to rise with officials now putting the number at 20.
Keo Vy, cabinet chief at the National Committee for Disaster Management, said eight are confirmed dead in Kompong Cham province, three from Stung Treng province, two each from Prey Veng and Kandal provinces and one from Tbong Khmum province.
Pen Lynat, director of administration in Kratie province confirmed four deaths in the province. Kompong Cham governor Lun Limthai said that five children were among the eight dead in his province.
He added that 4,128 families have been evacuated. Phnom Penh municipal spokesman Long Dimanche said that waters are continuing to rise around the city although it is below the emergency level.
“Phnom Penh could face flooding if the water levels continue to increase combined with more rain,” Mr. Dimanche said.
“We have prepared all means to rescue and evacuate people if need be,” he added.
Last year’s floods led to a reported 168 deaths across the country and affected more than 1.8 million people.
