Unfounded Claims Surfacing Amidst Historic Rainfall
Amidst torrential downpours that ravaged the United Arab Emirates, the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has repudiated claims that cloud seeding operations contributed to the severe flooding. NCM, tasked with overseeing such missions in the UAE, vehemently denied conducting any seeding activities before or during the storm.
Safety First, Rainfall Analysis
“Our primary concern is always the safety of our citizens, pilots, and aircraft,” stated Omar AlYazeedi, NCM’s deputy director general. “Cloud seeding is never performed during extreme weather events.”
The organization has thoroughly reviewed the weather patterns leading up to and during the storm, concluding that the heavy rainfall was a natural occurrence. Satellite data and other monitoring systems tracked the incoming storm system, but no seeding operations were ever initiated.
Cloud Seeding: An Ongoing Strategy
Cloud seeding has been a longstanding approach in the UAE to address water scarcity. Since the 1990s, hundreds of hours of seeding have been implemented annually. However, it requires specific atmospheric conditions to be effective.
“Cloud seeding is most effective when targeting clouds in their early formation stages,” explained AlYazeedi. “By the time thunderstorms develop to the severity we experienced in the recent downpours, it’s too late for seeding interventions.”
Ahmed Habib, a meteorologist cited in earlier reports suggesting a link to cloud seeding, clarified that while six pilots were dispatched as part of routine protocol, no seeding was carried out.
Evolution of Precipitation Patterns
The UAE’s climate has been experiencing subtle but significant shifts over time, influenced by global climate change. While traditionally characterized by arid conditions, the country has witnessed an increase in rainfall, particularly in recent years.
Nature magazine reports that precipitation in the UAE is projected to rise by 15-30% in the coming decades. These changes are expected to alter the region’s weather patterns and infrastructure needs.
Infrastructure Impacted by Unprecedented Rainfall
The unprecedented rainfall levels overwhelmed drainage systems throughout the Emirates. Dubai, the economic hub of the Middle East, suffered significant disruption and infrastructure challenges.
“Our buildings and infrastructure are designed for typical weather patterns, but these exceptional downpours tested their limits,” noted a spokesperson for the UAE government. “We urge residents to prioritize safety and follow emergency protocols during such events.”
Official Warnings and Preparedness
Ahead of the extreme weather conditions, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority issued ample warnings on social media. Residents were advised to stay indoors and adhere to safety guidelines.
The UAE remains committed to enhancing its emergency response capabilities and investing in resilient infrastructure to mitigate the potential impact of future severe weather events.
Data sourced from: cnbc.com
