Cyprus, Nicosia

Meteorologists from the TRNC commented on the cloud seeding process in connection with the flooding in Dubai

27.04.2024 / 10:48

The issue became relevant after recent flooding in Dubai. According to one version, the emergency could have occurred due to artificially induced precipitation.

In a statement issued by the Chamber of Engineers-Meteorologists, a part of the Union of Chambers of Engineers and Architects of Cyprus and Turkey (KTMMOB). It is stated that the flooding caused by heavy rains in Dubai could not have occurred due to cloud seeding.

Scientists claim that this procedure cannot be carried out without suitable clouds and can only increase precipitation by 20%.

"The rainfall that began around 11:00 PM on April 15, 2024, in Dubai and its surroundings and lasted for about 24 hours, was quite expected and occurred under natural conditions," the meteorologists' statement said.

The statement also mentions that weather intervention procedures are not something new. These processes are carried out using technologies developed by countries according to their own needs. As an example, it is claimed that the hydrometeorological department in Belgrade seeded a cumulonimbus cloud, which formed hail, using special rocket installations many years ago.

Additionally, meteorologists reminded that cloud seeding was also tested in the TRNC about a quarter of a century ago. As a result of this work, conducted with a modest budget, no damage was recorded.

Cloud seeding is the introduction of reagents into clouds to change their phase state. It is most commonly used to increase precipitation but is also widely used at airports with poor weather conditions to suppress hail or fog.

Recall that due to the heavy rainfall that hit the UAE in mid-April, Dubai experienced severe flooding. Roads, shopping centers, and the airport were submerged in the city. Thousands of tourists were stranded at the country's airports. The largest airline, Emirates, suspended passenger check-in for several days departing from Dubai airport.