USAID is supporting response efforts to deadly flash floods in Cambodia, which have been caused by prolonged rains and recent storms. Credit: STR / AFP

Key Developments

Heavy rainfall in October 2020 caused severe flooding across Cambodia, which resulted in at least 16 deaths and adversely affected more than 193,000 people as of October 14, relief organizations report.  Flood waters damaged or destroyed nearly 12,900 houses and displaced approximately 4,400 households across the country, with the most significant damage occurring in Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, and Pursat provinces.  In addition, humanitarian agencies reported damage to 522,000 acres of agricultural land, as well as bridges, roads, and other infrastructure, which left many affected areas inaccessible.  In response, the Royal Government of Cambodia deployed 720 search-and-rescue teams to help coordinate with the Cambodian Red Cross to respond to priority needs, including for food, health services, shelter, and water, sanitation, and hygiene support. 

On October 16, U.S. Ambassador W. Patrick Murphy declared a disaster due to the effects of the floods in Cambodia.  In response, USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA) provided $100,000 to the UN World Food Program to deliver emergency food assistance to flood-affected populations. 

Background

Cambodia’s low-lying river deltas, seasonal monsoon rains, and location in the Mekong River flood plain make the nation particularly vulnerable to flooding.  When disaster strikes Cambodia, USAID/BHA works with non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and the UN to meet humanitarian needs and complement government relief efforts.  In addition to disaster response, USAID/BHA supports a number of activities to mitigate disaster risk in Cambodia and help government authorities, emergency responders, and communities prepare for and respond to natural disasters.