Is Cloud Seeding a Factor in UAE’s Recent Flooding? Controversial Topic in Weather Community
Cloud seeding technology, a controversial topic in the weather community, has been in use for several decades. However, its effectiveness is still a topic of debate within the scientific community. The recent flooding event in Dubai on April 16 caused significant damage and paralyzed the city, leading many media outlets to point fingers at cloud seeding operations conducted by Dubai as the potential cause of the floods. However, experts from the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) stated that cloud seeding operations were carried out a few days before the heavy rainfall.
The effects of the flooding were widespread, with schools closing, underground car parks being flooded, and transportation services being disrupted. The Dubai International Airport faced severe operational impacts, with flights being diverted or delayed by several hours. Similar flooding also affected the capital city of Abu Dhabi, and a tragic incident resulted in the death of a man in Ras Al Khaimah due to flash floods.
Meteorologists and climate scientists emphasized the role of human-caused climate change in the heavy rainfall. Although cloud seeding technology was brought into the discussion, experts pointed out that it may not have played a significant role in the UAE flooding. The method of cloud seeding introduces particles into clouds to promote rain has been used since the 1940s; however, its overall effect is relatively small compared to other factors such as extreme weather events caused by climate change. In addition, cities like Dubai face challenges related to excessive rainfall that require adapting urban infrastructure to climate change becomes more evident.
While cloud seeding technology may have some impact on increasing rainfall, it is not a comprehensive solution to address the impacts of climate change on urban areas. Cities must invest in resilient infrastructure and implement sustainable practices to mitigate risks associated with extreme weather events caused by human-caused climate change.
In conclusion, while cloud seeding technology may be controversial among meteorologists and climate scientists; its effectiveness is still debatable within scientific circles. As cities like Dubai continue to face challenges related to excessive rainfall due to climate change’s impacts on urban areas; investing in resilient infrastructure and sustainable practices are crucial for addressing these issues comprehensively.
