Cloud seeding operations were conducted over the past few days to enhance natural rainfall and increase the volume of drops reaching the ground, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) said, as the UAE experienced the peak of its current rainy weather yesterday.
The recent showers, driven by the influence of an upper-air trough, have brought relief to various parts of the Emirates. The cloud seeding missions are intended to enhance natural rainfall and increase the volume of drops reaching the ground.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) is the primary weather forecasting agency in the UAE, responsible for monitoring and predicting weather patterns across the country. The NCM's efforts to enhance rainfall through cloud seeding operations demonstrate the importance of accurate weather forecasting in supporting the country's agricultural and water management needs.
The current weather system is expected to gradually weaken and shift southward starting today, according to the NCM. However, residents can still expect cloud development during the afternoon over the eastern and western parts of the country. This is a welcome respite from the extreme heat that has been affecting the UAE in recent days.
The UAE has experienced a series of convective weather events in recent days, with heavy rain, dust storms, and strong winds hitting Dubai and other parts of the country. On Wednesday, July 29, the NCM issued an orange alert as heavy rain, dust storms, and strong winds hit Dubai and other parts of the country, with gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 50km/h and reducing horizontal visibility in several areas.
A day earlier, rain and hail were reported across parts of the eastern region, including Masafi and areas north of Al Ain. The Met Department had also issued yellow alerts for dust storms and rain on July 28, as convective cloud activity continued to affect the country through the peak of summer.
The UAE's weather is influenced by its location in the Arabian Peninsula, where the country experiences a hot and dry desert climate. However, the recent rainfall has brought much-needed relief to the country's agricultural sector, which relies heavily on rainfall to support crop growth.
