Cloud Seeding

Cloud Seeding

News: In Maharashtra, a recent study revealed that a cloud seeding experiment in the Solapur region resulted in 18% more rainfall than usual.

Background:
• The experiment involved hygroscopic cloud seeding, which is done in warm convective clouds with a cloud base height greater than zero degree Celsius.
• Calcium chloride particles were released at the convective cloud base to trigger rainfall. The experiment was carried out between 2017-19 and evaluated 276 clouds using advanced equipment such as automatic rain gauges, radars, radiometers, and aircraft.

What is Cloud seeding?
• Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique that improves a cloud’s ability to produce rain or snow by introducing tiny ice nuclei into certain types of subfreezing clouds. These nuclei provide a base for snowflakes to form.
• The most common chemicals used for cloud seeding include silver iodide, potassium iodide, and dry ice (solid carbon dioxide). Liquid propane, which expands into a gas, has also been used.

What are the benefits of Cloud seeding?
• Increased Precipitation: Cloud seeding can help to produce more precipitation, which is beneficial for regions that see consistent drought problems.
• Habitability: Cloud seeding can make dry regions of the world more habitable by allowing for increased rainfall.
• Weather Regulation: Cloud seeding can help regulate the atmosphere’s water vapor, which can prevent damaging hail and severe storms.
• Economic Improvement: If farmers can grow and sell more crops, then the overall economy of a region would be greatly improved. Dry, arid places that were previously considered inhospitable could be transformed into desirable vacation spots, bringing in a flood of foreign currency into the economy.
• Relief for Drought-Stricken Areas: Cloud seeding promotes the formation of raindrops, which is essential for drought-stricken regions or places that are suffering from water scarcity.