Cloud-Seeding: An Overview

India's leading cloud-seeding expert, Thara Prabhakaran, discusses the intricacies, challenges, and potential impacts of cloud-seeding. While promising, it remains a complex process requiring extensive research for predictable outcomes.

Cloud Formation and Precipitation

• The formation and growth of clouds depend on several factors: 
  1. Moisture: Essential for cloud formation, influenced by weather patterns like cyclonic circulations.
  2. Aerosols: Suspended particles that can modify cloud properties.
  3. Anthropogenic Emissions: Human activities releasing gases and particles into the atmosphere.
• Cloud-seeding requires the presence of suitable clouds, which are complex and variable phenomena.

Cloud-Seeding Methods and Research

• Various methods for seeding clouds have been researched, aiming to enhance precipitation, particularly in water-limited areas.
• Studies indicate an 80% increase in rainfall from seeded clouds, with aerosols playing a crucial role in these processes.
• Clouds modified by: 
  1. Hygroscopic Aerosols: Absorb water and grow, supporting precipitation.
  2. Hydrophobic Aerosols: Like black soot, hinder cloud formation and precipitation.

Challenges and Environmental Concerns

• Not all clouds or conditions are suitable for seeding; identifying the right clouds and materials is critical.
• Silver iodide, used in seeding, is toxic to aquatic life, necessitating careful study of environmental impacts.
• Anthropogenic emissions and particulates can suppress cloud formation; a broader environmental approach is needed.

Future Research and Collaboration

• Further experimentation and documentation are necessary to understand cloud-seeding impacts fully.
• Long-term environmental impacts in India are not yet well-documented, requiring more systematic studies.
• Collaboration among scientists, researchers, and citizens is vital for atmospheric solutions.

Dr. Thara Prabhakaran is a Scientist G and Project Director at IITM Pune, working on the CAIPEEX program to study cloud-aerosol interactions and rainfall enhancement.