A recent article in the Nature Research journal npj Climate and Atmospheric Science reveals that the UAE’s cloud seeding operations generate approximately 15% extra rainfall annually, adding 168-838 million cubic meters to the country.
UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science Recognition:
The United Arab Emirates Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) oversees cloud seeding operations, contributing significantly to the country’s water security.
The Nature paper emphasizes the substantial impact of UAEREP’s technological and scientific advancements, garnering global recognition.
Alya Al Mazroui, Director of UAEREP, highlights the technological achievements that position the UAE at the forefront of rain enhancement research.
The country’s success has sparked global interest in rain enhancement research, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional freshwater sources.
Financial Investment and Strategic Partnerships:
The UAE invests substantially in cloud-seeding research and technology, annually conducting over 900 hours of cloud-seeding missions. The country collaborates with international organizations and experts to enhance its cloud-seeding capabilities.
The cloud seeding process involves meticulous planning, weather analysis, execution, and monitoring. Special flares containing nucleating agents are released into clouds, promoting the growth of droplets that eventually lead to precipitation.
The article outlines the systematic approach of meteorologists and specialists from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).
Cost Benefit and Climate Change Mitigation:
The article highlights the cost-effectiveness of cloud seeding, with the cost per unit of harvested seeded rainfall ranging from $0.01 to $0.04 per cubic meter.
This contrasts the reported cost of $0.31 per cubic meter for producing desalinated water, showcasing a significant cost benefit.
Moreover, the UAE’s rain enhancement initiative through cloud seeding emerges as a practical solution to address water and food security challenges posed by climate change.
