Saudi Arabia is ready to expand its cloud-seeding program, hoping to increase rainfall over its dry regions and address the country’s worsening water crisis. Deputy Environment Minister Osama Ibrahim Faqeeha discussed the plan in an interview during the UN General Assembly, where he emphasized the need for innovative solutions to combat desertification and water shortages in the kingdom.
The cloud-seeding program has been in place since the early 2000s, though it initially saw little success. Recent advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence and meteorology, have improved the program’s effectiveness. Researchers now better understand the specific conditions required to make cloud seeding successful, giving Saudi Arabia renewed confidence in the initiative.
Cloud seeding involves releasing chemicals into clouds to cool them, triggering rain. While the technique has gained popularity in countries like the United States, it remains controversial. Environmental groups warn that cloud seeding could have unintended consequences on global ecosystems, as artificially altering weather patterns may disrupt natural cycles. However, Faqeeha insisted that Saudi Arabia must explore every option to secure its water future.
The kingdom is also preparing to host the COP16 summit in December, where global leaders will focus on solutions to combat desertification. Saudi Arabia plans to lead the discussions and push for innovative approaches like cloud seeding to address land degradation. With water scarcity becoming an urgent issue, Faqeeha noted that the kingdom is committed to pursuing every available method to ensure a sustainable future.
Though the practice has sparked debate, Saudi Arabia is moving forward with its plans to expand cloud seeding and lead research on its potential benefits. As water shortages continue to threaten the region, the program may offer a critical solution to the kingdom’s long-term environmental challenges.
