Countries have been cloud seeding for decades to manipulate weather patterns, with mixed evidence on its effectiveness and concerns about its potential to cause cross-border tensions. Cloud seeding is used to alleviate drought, fight forest fires, and disperse fog, but lacks oversight. The main risks are perceived geopolitical tensions and misinformation. While some countries like China have extensive cloud seeding programs, there are concerns about unintended consequences and limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness.
Key Points
Cloud seeding has been practiced for decades to manipulate weather patterns
Concerns exist about the effectiveness and unintended consequences of cloud seeding
Some countries are increasingly using cloud seeding as a form of geoengineering
Pros
Can help alleviate drought and fight forest fires
Used to disperse fog at airports
Cons
Lacks oversight and regulation
Potential to cause cross-border tensions and geopolitical conflicts
May lead to misinformation and conspiracy theories