Flooding Forces Closure of Major Bridge in Battambang

Authorities in Battambang city temporarily shut down the Samdech Kralahom Sar Kheng Bridge spanning the Sangkae River on September 25 after water levels surged due to days of intense rainfall, provincial officials announced.

Local authorities issued warnings to riverside communities, especially vulnerable groups including children and senior citizens, to remain vigilant as floodwaters continue to rise.

By Friday, multiple roadways and bridges in Samlot district had become submerged as torrential rains persisted, overwhelming streams and waterways throughout the region.

According to the provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology, a low-pressure system that formed over the western Pacific intensified into Tropical Storm Surigae (T2626), the 26th named storm of the season. This weather system is expected to impact Cambodia through September 30.

The storm has amplified the southwest monsoon across the Bay of Bengal, Andaman Sea, South China Sea, and Mekong River basin, bringing sustained rainfall to much of Battambang province. Samlot district, which serves as a primary watershed for the Battambang multipurpose reservoir, has experienced particularly heavy precipitation, causing rapid runoff that pushed the reservoir well beyond its designed capacity.

Adjacent Pailin province has similarly experienced widespread flooding, forcing the evacuation of numerous households from their homes.

Provincial Governor Ban Sreymom reported Friday that rainfall persists and water levels remain elevated. Despite round-the-clock efforts by officials to open floodgates and drain affected areas, conditions remain dangerous.

The governor called on residents in flood-prone locations, particularly Steung Trang commune in Sala Krao district and other settlements near waterways, to temporarily relocate to elevated terrain. Emergency response teams and security personnel have been deployed continuously to provide assistance as needed.