Phnom Penh, November 12, 2019 –Cambodia’s traditional prediction on annual rainfall distribution using drippings of wax from burning candles indicates medium amount of rain at the beginning and downpours at the end of the coming year in almost all the 25 provinces and capital city.
The rainfall distribution prediction using drippings of wax from burning candles was organised in the Royal Palace during the full moon in the mid night of Nov. 11 under the royal presidency of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia.
According to the prediction, Kampong Thom, Kampong Speu, Takeo, Banteay Meanchey, Prey Veng, Svay Rieng, and Thbong Khmum provinces are expected to have less amount of rain than others while Siem Reap province to have the most amount.
Done once a year, the traditional prediction means to encourage Cambodian farmers to get ready for the next farming season.
Twenty-five candles were burned with each one representing a province and the capital city. The burning candles were put in diagonal position to let the melted wax drip to foretell the amount of rain in each province and the capital city.
The traditional prediction on rainfall distribution was part of the annual Water Festival being held from Nov. 10 to 12.
In the same night, His Majesty the King also presided over “Sampeas Preah Khe” – Moon Festival – and “Ok Ambok” – a type of glutinous rice roasted and crushed with pestle eaten with banana or coconut juice.
by C. Nika
