Ministry warns of longer dry season
THE Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology urges local authorities, relevant institutions and the public to use water judiciously, particularly in remote rural areas distanced from sources.
The appeal comes in light of the dry season’s extension until May this year.
The ministry stated in a Junuary 12 statement that weather conditions during the dry season are expected to be highly variable.
It noted that temperatures are anticipated to rise above the averages of recent years, surpassing those in 2023. The forecast predicts a minimum average temperature of 37 degree Celsius, with peaks around 41C in April and early May.
The ministry indicated that the season is likely to see light, unexpected showers due to a weak southwest monsoon leading to a delay in the onset of the rainy season compared to 2023.
Authorities have been advised to remain vigilant regarding the increased frequency of thunder, lightning and strong winds during April and May.
Ministry spokesperson
Chan Yutha said on January 13 that the country might experience higher temperatures and lower rainfall than in previous years due to the global El Nino phenomenon.
He noted that river levels are low, impacting flow into lakes and natural canals along the Upper and Lower Mekong, as well as the Tonle Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers.
“Such weather conditions will cause water to evaporate or dry out quickly. Therefore, I would like to advise people to limit dry season rice cultivation to once a season to conserve water for daily needs and prevent shortages or challenges like those experienced in 2015 and 2016,” he warned.
Yutha also stressed that shortages could affect the country nationwide if people do not adhere to the dry season rice cultivation plan set by the water resources and agriculture departments and provincial administrations.
To date, three provinces – Pursat, Kampong Chhnang and Svay Rieng – have announced the suspension of dry-season rice farming for the second season due to insufficient irrigation supply.