Urgent Need for Cloud Seeding Amid Weak SE Monsoon

Need for Cloud Seeding

It is already the third week of June and there are growing concerns over a weaker-than-expected south-east monsoon in several parts of India. The deficiency could be more than 10% of normal rainfall. This makes it very important for policymakers and state governments to begin preparing for cloud seeding operations well in advance, before rainfall deficits become irreversible. As agriculture, drinking water supplies, hydro-power generation, and rural livelihoods remain heavily dependent on monsoon performance, proactive planning is essential to handle the shortfall in water supply. 

Cloud seeding cannot substitute for natural rainfall, but it can serve as a supplementary weather modification means, under suitable atmospheric conditions. Considering the lead time required for selection of contractor for cloud seeding, regulatory approval, aircraft availability, technical assessment of weather conditions, and coordination between meteorological department (IMD) and the contractor, it is highly recommended that the government should start preparation at the earliest, rather than waiting till the mid-monsoon season.

The relevance of this approach is highlighted in my article “Cloud Seeding: Potential Solution for Rainfall Deficiency in India,” which discusses how cloud seeding can help mitigate the impacts of localized rainfall shortages when implemented scientifically and under favourable weather conditions. 

As climate change increases the frequency of erratic monsoons, waiting until drought conditions or till El Nino intensifies in August, may reduce the effectiveness of cloud seeding operations. Early preparedness can ensure that cloud seeding resources are mobilized quickly whenever suitable cloud systems develop.

As potential economic consequences of rainfall deficiency are extremely serious, the government should take a proactive approach by ensuring cloud seeding readiness immediately, rather than later in the season.

Save water, save Earth