Heavy Rains, Flooding in Dubai Tied to UAE's Cloud Seeding Efforts

heavy rains, flooding in dubai tied to uae’s cloud seeding efforts

In an interview with a meteorology expert from the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), GRAZIA Middle East received confirmation of recent cloud seeding operations conducted within the preceding 24-hour period. The representative disclosed operational details, citing the execution of six trips during this timeframe.

Tuesday’s severe weather and heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) led to government orders for public sector workers to work remotely and the closing of schools. Warnings for severe rains that started early in the day were released by the NCM.

There were reports of severe winds and flooding in a number of areas, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman. Videos showing golf ball-sized hail in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain, and other parts of the UAE capital also went viral on the internet.

“Our cloud seeding operations are conducted whenever clouds are present in the sky. From yesterday until today [Tuesday afternoon], we executed six trips,” the representative stated.

Furthermore, it was confirmed by the representative to Grazia that a reduction in temperatures across the UAE is anticipated as a consequence of the cloud seeding efforts.

“We are observing a significant decrease in temperatures today, and by Wednesday, we expect a decline of approximately 10 degrees Celsius,” the spokesperson told Grazia.

Nevertheless, following the stabilization of weather conditions, which is expected by Wednesday evening as per Grazia’s report, temperatures are projected to rise. Rainy conditions are forecasted for April 17 in the eastern and northern regions of the country, including Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah.

CLOUD SEEDING: AN OVERVIEW

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has led the way in cloud seeding initiatives for many years, with the goal of resolving the country’s mostly desert environment by increasing rainfall to support agriculture and handle water security issues.

The process of cloud seeding is complex, and a lot of study has been done to determine how effective it is. Essentially, the method involves scattering salt flares or other small particles into clouds to cause more rain to fall. In the decades that followed, the NCM worked with prestigious international partners including NASA and the National Center for Atmospheric Research in the United States. The UAE launched its cloud seeding program in the 1990s.

The nation’s rain enhancement program, according to Minister of Climate Change and Environment Mariam Al Mheiri, is essential to boosting tourism, restocking groundwater supplies, and securing food and water security.