Cloud seeding technology has been a topic of controversy for many years, especially after the devastating floods in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE, particularly Dubai, experienced severe flooding with schools closing, metro services disrupted, and even fatalities reported. The storm was attributed to three low-pressure systems that created major storms moving towards the Persian Gulf. Climate scientists believe that human-caused climate change played a role in the intensity of the rainfall.
Experts have confirmed that cloud seeding was carried out in the days leading up to the heavy rainfall. However, authorities did not conduct seeding on the day the storm hit. Despite its limitations, cloud seeding technology is designed to enhance rainfall by introducing particles into clouds. Research shows that while cloud seeding may contribute to increased rainfall, it cannot create rain out of clear skies.
The UAE has been using cloud seeding technology since 2002, but experts believe that recent flood disaster was not caused by faulty seeding operations. Rather, cities like Dubai are vulnerable to flooding due to inadequate infrastructure to handle excessive rainfall. Urban areas need to be redesigned to adapt to changing climatic conditions. The recent floods in Dubai serve as a wake-up call for the need to rethink city planning in the face of increasing extreme weather events. Cloud seeding technology is just one small piece of the puzzle in addressing water needs and managing weather patterns.
Cloud seeding technology has been around for many decades and is used by countries worldwide to address their water needs. However, it remains controversial due to its effectiveness and potential impact on weather patterns.
During a recent storm in Dubai, there were reports linking cloud seeding operations conducted by Dubai authorities with heavy rainfall that caused severe flooding in the city.
Experts have confirmed that cloud seeding was indeed carried out before the storm hit, but not on the day it struck.
Despite this fact, some media reports still attribute the flooding directly to faulty cloud seeding operations.
However, research shows that while cloud seeding may contribute to increased rainfall during certain times of year or under specific conditions, it cannot create rain out of clear skies.
The UAE has been using cloud seeding technology since 2002 and experts believe that its implementation should continue as part of an overall strategy for managing water resources and adapting cities for changing climatic conditions.
