Record low temperatures and unseasonable rainfall over Khmer New Year holiday were an occurrence that had never been seen before, and were believed to be a glimpse into the potential, intensifying effects of climate change in Cambodia, experts said, a phenomenon that studies suggest could seriously hinder future agricultural productivity through flooding, unpredictable rains and warming of up to 5 degrees Celsius by 2050. A 2014 research project examining the impact of climate change on the Lower Mekong region forecast that the eastern plains of Cambodia will experience the country’s highest surge in temperatures of up to 5 degrees Celsius. This will inhibit the region’s ability to grow cassava, soybeans and maize, the study says. A report by the German Society for International Cooperation, released in February, found about half of Cambodia’s roughly 9 million economically active citizens rely on agriculture for income and food security, and are potentially exposed to the consequences of changing weather including drought, flooding, unpredictable rains and tropical storms. (Source: The Cambodia Daily)