Explained: Is artificial rain behind Dubai flood?
What's the story
In an unusual occurrence, Dubai, a city typically characterized by its arid climate and soaring temperatures, was hit by heavy rainfall on Tuesday.
This unforeseen weather event resulted in widespread flooding , disrupting the city's daily routine.
The unusual weather phenomenon has sparked discussions about the potential impact of climate change on extreme weather patterns in the region.
It has also raised questions as to what caused the unexpected downpour.
The culprit behind it could be artificial rain.
Cloud seeding
Understanding cloud seeding
Artificial rain, often known as cloud seeding, is a weather modification technique used to increase precipitation.
This procedure includes introducing substances into clouds, such as silver iodide or potassium iodide, via aircraft or helicopters.
These particles contribute to the condensation of water vapor and the creation of raindrops or ice crystals, resulting in cloud formation and subsequent rainfall.
The success of cloud seeding is dependent on specific meteorological conditions, such as moisture-laden clouds and favorable wind patterns.
Cons
Cons of cloud seeding
However, despite potential benefits, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of cloud seeding and the safety of the seeding agents used.
With cloud seeding, rain intended for one place may be deflected, causing a drought in another.
The places where the cloud seeding approaches are used typically lack the infrastructure to handle the excess rainfall, which frequently ends in flooding and disaster.
In Oman, at least 18 people have died in recent days as torrential rains caused flooding.
Silver iodide
Silver iodide is another cause for concern
The use of silver iodide as a nucleator to produce artificial rain is another cause for concern.
The approach has the potential to acidify the oceans, deplete the ozone layer, and raise atmospheric CO2 levels.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) first experimented with cloud seeding in 1982.
By the early 2000s, this artificial rain program had been enhanced through scientific collaboration with institutions such as the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), Witwatersrand University in South Africa, and NASA.
Sustainable measures
NCM's efforts to increase rainfall safely
The Rain Enhancement Program (UAEREP), managed by the Emirates' National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), leads this initiative.
Scientists involved in the UAEREP focus on studying the physical and chemical characteristics of the UAE's atmosphere, particularly aerosols and pollutants, and their effect on cloud formation.
The objective is to find an effective agent to stimulate cloud growth and ultimately increase rainfall.
Eco-friendly approach
UAE's cloud seeding program prioritizes environmental safety
Currently, the NCM operates four Beechcraft King Air C90 aircraft from Al Ain Airport, each equipped with cutting-edge technologies and instruments for cloud seeding and atmospheric research.
Unlike some other countries' cloud seeding programs that use silver iodide—a material that has raised environmental concerns—the UAE's program avoids harmful chemicals and uses natural salts as seeding agents.