AKP Phnom Penh, June 01, 2026 --

Natural disasters cannot be prevented, but their damage and casualties can be mitigated through heightened vigilance and community solidarity, a senior Cambodian official said Monday.

Samdech Kittisangahapundit Men Sam An, Honorary President of Svay Rieng Provincial Red Cross, made the remarks during a visit to distribute relief aid to families affected by a recent severe gale in Romeas Hek district.

According to the Provincial Red Cross report, a severe storm packing heavy rain, thunder, and strong winds swept through five districts and cities in Svay Rieng on May 28 afternoon, damaging a total of 242 homes. The breakdown of the destruction includes 117 homes in Svay Rieng city, 83 in Romeas Hek, 33 in Svay Teap, five in Kampong Ro, and four in Rumduol.

During the event, Samdech Men Sam An conveyed the deep sympathies and regards of CRC President Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen to the affected villagers, expressing profound regret over the loss of property and shelter.

"The Cambodian Red Cross, under the leadership of Samdech Bun Rany Hun Sen, operates strictly on humanitarian principles," she said. "We adhere to the commitment that no victim will be left to suffer from hunger or homelessness without the knowledge or intervention of local authorities, under any circumstances."

She added that the emergency relief packages delivered Monday – comprising food supplies, essential household items, and financial assistance – aim to alleviate immediate hardships and provide reassurance to the affected families.

As Cambodia enters the monsoon season, Samdech Men Sam An urged citizens to remain highly alert to volatile weather conditions. She advised families to keep children indoors during storms, avoid seeking shelter under large trees, and turn off mobile phones and electrical appliances to minimise the risk of lightning strikes. She also emphasised the importance of maintaining hygiene and consuming clean or boiled water to prevent weather-related illnesses.

By K. Rithy Reak