Imagine having the ability to manipulate the weather and make it rain in drought-stricken areas. Cloud seeding may seem like something out of a science fiction film, but it is a genuine process that scientists have been employing to precipitate rainfall for decades. In the face of increasing droughts caused by phenomena like El Niño, It offers a glimmer of hope by diverting monsoons, addressing water shortages, and even combating pollution. In this article, we will delve into the interesting subject of cloud-seeding and its potential to reduce drought impacts.
Understanding Cloud-Seeding
Cloud-seeding involves spraying tiny particles into clouds to initiate rainfall. These particles serve as the catalysts for the formation of raindrops. In Malaysia, where it has been honed over the years, experts use either a silver iodine-based solution or calcium chloride. The silver iodine solution encourages the formation of ice crystals, which then grow and eventually fall as raindrops. On the other hand, calcium chloride acts similarly to sea salt, absorbing moisture and stimulating water droplets to increase in size and burst.
Taking to the Skies: The Cloud-Seeding Process
When the reservoirs in northern Malaysia were running dry, scientists took to the skies in a joint effort with the national air force. The plane penetrates the clouds after it reaches a height of at least 5,000 feet. The rear door opens, and officers wearing harnesses spray the rain-making solution into the atmosphere. This method is performed two or three times to increase the likelihood of success. The results can be swift and dramatic, with rain pouring down while the scientists are still inside the cloud.
Alleviating Water Shortages and Pollution
Cloud-seeding has proven effective in providing temporary relief during critical water shortage situations. By redirecting rainfall to reservoirs and catchment areas, the technique has helped replenish water levels. In fact, the water levels of more than 70 dams throughout the region are now close to capacity, according to Charles Santiago, chairman of the National Water Services Commission. However, it is important to note that cloud-seeding is a weather-dependent response that amplifies or diverts rain rather than creating it from nothing. Thus, it cannot be considered a permanent solution.
Battling El Niño and its Impacts
The looming threat of El Niño, a phenomenon characterized by the warming of the eastern Pacific Ocean, raises concerns about reduced rainfall and soaring temperatures in southeast Asia. El Niño occurs every three to seven years and significantly impacts global weather patterns. The associated droughts and high temperatures can lead to reduced agricultural yields, forest fires, dwindling water supplies, and strained power grids. The severity of the impacts varies, with the exceptionally strong El Niño in 2015/2016 causing devastating disruption to livelihoods, food security, and health across the region.
Preparing for the Worst: Regional Efforts
Countries across the region are taking proactive measures to prepare for the impending El Niño. Some have asked farmers to prioritize water supplies, industrial estates to increase rainwater storage capabilities, and imposed restrictions on electricity usage. The meteorological services in Singapore have urged citizens to be prepared for forest fires and haze by ensuring they have face masks and functional air purifiers. In Vietnam, the state utility company has launched a national electricity-saving movement to reduce usage during peak hours. These efforts aim to minimize the impact of the drought and heat wave.
The Limitations of Cloud-Seeding
While cloud-seeding has provided some relief to water-scarce regions, concerns remain about its efficacy in averting a full-blown crisis. Making it rain through cloud-seeding is an expensive process that heavily relies on specific weather conditions and cloud formations. Rainfall cannot be conjured out of thin air. Cloud-seeding offers temporary relief, but freshwater supply remains the government’s biggest concern. To tackle this issue effectively, a combination of different approaches will be necessary.
Conclusion
Cloud-seeding has emerged as a promising technique to combat the effects of drought, particularly in regions prone to water scarcity. While it is not a magical solution, cloud-seeding has demonstrated its ability to provide temporary relief by redirecting rainfall. As the threat of El Niño looms and the need for sustainable water management becomes increasingly crucial, scientists and governments must explore diverse approaches to ensure a stable freshwater supply. Cloud-seeding, along with other strategies, offers hope in the battle against drought and its devastating consequences.
