UAE: Cloud seeding helping enhance rainfall during summer

Cloud seedings triggered rainfall in parts of the UAE over the past few days, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). The national weather forecaster said the rain-bearing capacity of convective clouds in the eastern direction was also enhanced by cloud seeding.

Dr. Ahmed Habib from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) on Thursday (July 8) said during summer, the country experiences monsoon low pressure from India, which, typically, raises temperatures, especially in the eastern parts of the country amid growing formation of convective cloud that triggers rainfall.

“The heavy to moderate rainfall received in the country over the recent days were due to convective cloud formation eastward and this is normal during summer,” he told .

“Cloud seeding operations are continuing in the country to trigger more rainfall,” he added.

The NCM reported heavy rainfall accompanied by hailstorm over Ghashaba in Al Ain over the past two days.

The national weather forecaster’s report for July said that the eastern mountains and southern parts of the country are exposed to clouds due to high altitude and rising mercury, and rainfall is likely to occur in the afternoon.

“Some areas of the country are affected by extension of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) during July, especially in the second half, which, at times, is accompanied with convective cloud,” said the report.

Dr. Habib said that this is just the beginning of the monsoon season, and more rainfall is likely, especially, in the mountainous areas.

“We can expect more moderate to heavy rainfall in the mountainous eastern parts of the UAE over the coming days,” he said.

Data showed that the maximum rain ever recorded during July was 175.6 milli metres (mm) in Khor Fakkan in 1995.

The NCM said the average temperatures for July will be 35.9 degrees Celsius (C), which is marginally higher than the national average.

The country will be affected by fresh southerly winds, especially in the morning, which may lead to blowing and suspended dust particles because of a gust of fresh northwesterly winds, it added.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com

Ismail Sebugwaawo

A professional journalist originating from Kampala, Uganda, Ismail is a happy father with strong attachment to family and great values for humanity. He has practiced journalism in UAE for the past 13 years, covering the country's parliament (FNC) and crimes, including Abu Dhabi Police, public prosecution and courts. He also reports about important issues in education, public health and the environment, with a keen interest in human interest stories. When out of reporting duties, he serves the Ugandan community in Abu Dhabi as he wants to see his countrymen happy. Exercising and reading are part of his free time.