How cloud seeding can make it rain or prevent extreme weather [Video]

Cloud seeding has been named by some media reports as a possible contributor to record-setting rain and flooding in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Here’s a closer look at what cloud seeding is, how it’s used and whether it could have made the flooding worse.

What is cloud seeding?

It’s the process of making tiny drops of water vapour and ice crystals in clouds stick together into larger, heavier droplets or pellets that fall as rain or snow.

Often, this is done by spraying particles of salts such as silver iodide or table salt using special flares carried by airplanes or projectiles such as rockets, cannons or missiles. 

The U.A.E. has also used drones to zap clouds with electric charges for cloud seeding.

Is this a new technology?

No. It’s actually been around since the 1940s. It’s been used in dozens of countries, including Canada. Despite that, interestingly, it was only recently that scientists …