Current Weather in Cambodia

The cultural and meteorological awareness regarding Cambodia's climate is deeply rooted in agricultural rituals and Buddhist events fostered under the tropical monsoon climate, ensuring a strong sense of coexistence with nature and awareness of climate change.

Connection between Buddhist Events and Seasons

Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)

• Held around the end of the rainy season (around October), it celebrates changes in the water level of the Tonle Sap Lake.
• Prayers for the blessings and safety of water are made through boat racing and lantern floating.

Khmer New Year

• Welcoming the hottest part of the dry season (mid-April), it simultaneously celebrates the New Year and the onset of the rainy season.
• Families visit stupas and temples to pray for the start of agricultural work.

Tonle Sap Lake and Cultural Life

Coexistence with Floods

• During the rainy season (May–October), the lake expands, transforming surrounding areas into agricultural fields and fishing grounds.
• Ferries and floating houses become part of daily life, fostering a habit of accepting fluctuations in water levels.

Fisheries and Food Culture

• Traditional dishes using freshwater fish that flourish during the flood season (such as Amok) have become seasonal specialties.
• Preserved foods (dried fish, salted fish) are highly valued during the drought season.

Agricultural Rituals and Rainy Season Preparations

Pre-planting Rituals

• Rituals to worship the rice deity (Kong Kong) are conducted before the rainy season begins to pray for a good harvest.
• Community work in preparing seedbeds and learning rice-planting songs strengthens local community bonds.

Harvest and Harvest Festival

• The harvest concludes in the early dry season (November–December), with rituals performed at temples and homes to offer new rice.
• Traditional dances and songs are showcased along with offerings to Buddhist monks during the harvest festival.

Housing, Architecture, and Climate Adaptation

Raised Floor Houses

• Built on raised structures to prepare for flooding during the rainy season, featuring ventilation holes and large eaves to cope with the tropics' high temperatures and humidity.
• Lightweight materials such as bamboo and timber are widely used, emphasizing mobility and ease of repair.

Innovations in Temple Architecture

• Steep roofs facilitate rapid drainage of intense rainfall.
• Open corridors and lattice windows enhance ventilation and maintain internal comfort.

Modern Meteorological Awareness and Challenges

Preparedness for Climate Change

• In response to the increasing frequency of abnormal floods and droughts, early warning systems initiated by NGOs and the government are being implemented.
• Efforts to ensure food security are being strengthened through the development of drought-resistant rice varieties and the enhancement of irrigation facilities.

Heat Mitigation in Urban Areas

• In major cities like Phnom Penh, the establishment of green spaces, shaded spots, and the introduction of thermal insulation paint are on the rise.
• A blend of traditional construction techniques and modern technologies is being explored through "climate-adaptive urban planning."

Summary

Cambodia's climate awareness is characterized by its integration of traditional rituals, agricultural practices, and living adaptations in harmony with nature, while actively incorporating modern strategies to adapt to climate change.