The UAE is gearing up for a significant surge in cloud-seeding operations in 2024, with meteorological experts planning to execute as many as 300 missions. The initiative, led by the UAE Research Program for Rain Enhancement Science – National Center of Meteorology (UAEREP-NCM), aims to boost rainfall and combat the persistent issue of water scarcity in the region.
“The UAE, situated in a predominantly arid zone, has been pioneering in cloud seeding for over two decades,” a representative from UAEREP-NCM disclosed to Al Arabiya English. This move is a direct response to the burgeoning strain on water resources, exacerbated by climate change and a growing population. The nation, traditionally reliant on desalinated seawater, faces a pivotal moment in its quest for sustainable water sources.
An NCM official outlined the meticulous approach to these missions, stating, “We conduct close to 300 cloud-seeding operations annually, adapting to the dynamic weather patterns and cloud formations. Our objective is to refine rain enhancement techniques, thereby bolstering water security not just in the UAE but also in other arid areas.”
The results are promising: cloud seeding has shown potential in significantly augmenting annual rainfall, with the possibility of a 15% increase in turbid conditions and up to 25% in clear skies. These figures emphasize cloud seeding’s role in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change, which has been a focal point of the UAE’s environmental strategy, highlighted by its recent hosting of COP28 in Dubai.
Addressing the nation’s climatic challenges, the NCM official remarked, “Water security is paramount, given our minimal annual rainfall and high evaporation rates. The disparity between water usage and availability is stark, pushing us to explore innovative, sustainable solutions.”
The UAE employs advanced cloud-seeding techniques, including the release of salt nanoparticles to expedite condensation within clouds. “Our approach involves dispersing seeding agents into updraft-favorable clouds, enhancing condensation and coalescence, and ultimately leading to heavier droplet formation,” the official explained.
The UAEREP-NCM is not only focused on immediate rainfall enhancement but also on fostering research and global partnerships. The program supports cutting-edge projects, offering substantial grants for innovative research in rain enhancement, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to addressing the global water scarcity crisis.
“In addition to boosting rainfall in our region, the insights from our projects have the potential to aid arid and semi-arid areas worldwide,” the official added, emphasizing the global scope of their efforts.