Cloud Seeding in Solapur Region Boosts Rainfall by 18%: Study

• 31 Oct 2023

A recent study published reports that a cloud seeding experiment conducted in the Solapur region of Maharashtra resulted in 18% more rainfall than under normal conditions.

Key Points

• Indian Scientists Conducted the Experiment: Scientists from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology in Pune and other research institutes carried out the cloud seeding experiment.
• Hygroscopic Cloud Seeding Method: The experiment utilized hygroscopic cloud seeding, primarily focusing on warm convective clouds with a cloud base height greater than zero degrees Celsius.
• Hygroscopic flares containing calcium chloride particles were released at the base of convective clouds to induce rainfall.
• Glaciogenic Seeding in Cold Clouds: In addition to hygroscopic seeding, scientists conducted glaciogenic seeding in cold clouds containing both ice and water.
• This method employed ice-nucleating silver iodide particles to promote ice particle formation and increase precipitation.
• The study revealed that glaciogenic seeding did not significantly impact rainfall at the seeding location. However, an increase in rainfall was observed in the downwind area of the seeded region, influenced by synoptic weather conditions.
• Recommendations for Enhancing Rainfall: Based on the study's findings, scientists suggest the use of hygroscopic cloud seeding to augment rainfall in regions of India facing water scarcity and rainfall deficits, provided suitable conditions are met.
• Their recommendation is supported by statistical, physical, and numerical evidence.
• The project was initiated by the Ministry of Earth Sciences and underscores cloud seeding's potential to mitigate water stress in specific regions of India.