Conspiracy theories surrounding cloud seeding have long existed; some claim humans are to blame for natural weather occurrences. On the other hand, recent precipitation in Dubai brought back the debate over cloud seeding’s role in precipitation.
Following the unusually high level of precipitation in Dubai, suspicion emerged over the possible use of cloud seeding methods. To stimulate precipitation, tiny particles are injected into clouds through a process known as “cloud seeding.” Meteorologists stress that although cloud seeding is a recognized technique in areas facing water constraints, it cannot cause or worsen natural meteorological occurrences like storms.
The University of Reading’s Professor Maarten Ambaum clarifies the meteorological causes of the recent rains in Dubai. He explains the phenomena in terms of a mesoscale convective system typified by massive thunderstorms due to atmospheric moisture and heat. The intense downpours and flooding are caused by these weather patterns rather than cloud-seeding activities.
Meteorologists claim that cloud seeding activities had no role in the recent rainfall event in Dubai. This claim is supported by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), which claims that no cloud-seeding missions were carried out during heavy rain. Furthermore, experts stress that cloud seeding is impracticable under severe weather conditions since it works best when aimed at early-stage clouds.
The NCM emphasizes that it follows industry best practices for cloud seeding activities and pays close attention to safety. The NCM underscores the need for responsible behavior and clarifies that operations are not carried out during severe weather occurrences.
Meteorologists and weather authorities stress the need for public knowledge and comprehension of weather phenomena amid continuous disputes. By clearing up misunderstandings and offering information, stakeholders hope to promote more informed discussions on cloud seeding and its potential to alleviate water shortage issues.
