Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in its cloud seeding initiative, increasing rainfall over Makkah and surrounding holy sites, according to a recent study, Gulf News reported.

The research, conducted by the Regional Programme for Cloud Seeding, highlights the kingdom’s efforts to enhance precipitation and boost cloud density in crucial areas.

Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique employed to stimulate precipitation. It involves the introduction of substances like silver iodide or potassium iodide into clouds using aircraft or helicopters.

The team also assessed weather patterns in the Taif Governorate and plans to present their findings at the upcoming International Rainmakers Conference, underscoring the kingdom’s involvement in global weather modification efforts.

As the programme continues to develop, additional experiments are planned to build on such encouraging results. The findings would be shared with the international community and local stakeholders to further enhance understanding of cloud seeding techniques.

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Earlier this year, UAE’s Met Office debunked rumours linking cloud seeding to the recent heavy rains in the country. Dr Habib Ahmed, a senior meteorologist at the National Center of Meteorology, clarified that no cloud-seeding flights were conducted during the period of unstable weather in the country.

Heavy rainfall struck various parts of the UAE, including the desert city-state of Dubai in April. It caused extensive flooding and disrupted major highways and the international airport.