By:
• Meng Seavmey

• November 4, 2024 , 5:15 PM

PHNOM PENH – Cambodia is bracing for cooler weather as the strong Northeast monsoon, also known as the ‘winter’ monsoon, is set to bring chilly winds and low rainfall for the next three months.

In a recent weather forecast issued on November 2, the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology outlined its predictions for November to January next year. The forecast is based on careful observation, review, and analysis of variable temperature evolution in the western Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, and equatorial zones.

“The weather for the three months will be influenced 60 percent by La Nina phenomenon and 40 percent by ENSO phenomenon,” the ministry said in a statement, urging the public to conserve water due to the expected low rainfall.

During this period, lowland areas such as Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Pursat, Siem Reap, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, Tboung Khmum, Prey Veng, Svay Rieng, Kandal, Takeo, and Phnom Penh can anticipate minimum temperatures of 20 Celsius and maximum temperatures of 31 Celsius.

Northeast winds will bring occasional rain, lightning, and storms, with a five-percent coverage across these areas.

Highlands such as Kampong Speu, Pailin, Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Stung Treng, Kratie, Ratanakiri, and Mondulkiri provinces will experience temperatures ranging from a brisk 20 Celsius to a warmer 30 Celsius, influenced by Northeast and North winds.

Coastal areas, including Koh Kong, Preah Sihanouk, Kampot, and Kep provinces, will see temperatures hovering between 21 Celsius and 32 Celsius. These regions can also expect sporadic rain, lightning, and storms, with a five percent coverage. Additionally, wave heights in coastal waters will vary between 0.5 meters and 1.5 meters.

The Cardamom Mountain range, Dangrek mountain range, and Bokor Mountain will experience the lowest temperatures, with minimums of 19 Celsius and maximums of 30 Celsius, under the influence of Northeast winds.

Despite the ongoing La Niña phenomenon, Cambodia is experiencing warmer temperatures this cool season compared to the same period in late 2023 and early 2024.

Last year, November 2023, saw temperatures ranging from a low of 19 Celsius to a high of 31 Celsius. In December, temperatures dipped slightly lower, reaching a minimum of 17 Celsius and a maximum of 30 Celsius. January 2024 was marked by a relatively warm period, with temperatures ranging from 19 Celsius to 34 Celsius, influenced by a weak Northeast monsoon.