Prompt Cast
The Controversy and Uncertainty of Weather Modification
TLDR Weather modification, including techniques like cloud seeding, has been a topic of controversy and debate. While some scientists claim success in manipulating the weather, others argue that any effects are natural. The effectiveness of these techniques remains uncertain due to the difficulty of conducting rigorous scientific experiments and the lack of solid evidence.
Timestamped Summary
00:00
Weather modification is the topic of discussion in this episode of "Stuff You Should Know."
03:57
Weather modification involves attempts to make it rain, stop raining, or deter other weather phenomena, such as fog or hurricanes, by applying science and using various methods like cloud seeding.
07:51
Cloud seeding involves introducing nuclei, such as silver iodide or table salt, into clouds to create ice or rain, respectively, and increase the likelihood of precipitation.
11:33
Cloud seeding experiments, such as Project Cirrus in 1947, have caused controversy and debate over whether or not humans can actually manipulate the weather, with some scientists claiming success and others arguing that any effects were natural.
15:11
In 1952, the Royal Air Force conducted cloud seeding experiments that resulted in a massive flood and 35 deaths, and the US also attempted to extend the monsoon season in Vietnam during the Vietnam War, leading to a ban on weather modification for weaponization purposes.
19:22
China has a large weather modification program that employs thousands of people to shoot clouds with silver iodide to prevent rain, and in the 1970s, the US attempted to suppress hail through cloud seeding, but farmers were not happy about it.
23:45
Weather modification techniques, such as dissipating hurricanes and fog, are controversial and their effectiveness is still uncertain.
27:29
The effectiveness of weather modification techniques, such as cloud seeding and hurricane seeding, is still uncertain due to the difficulty of carrying out rigorous scientific experiments and the lack of solid evidence.
31:19
The hosts give shout-outs to their Kiva team and a portrait photographer, and then read a heartwarming listener mail about a homeless man who turned his life around with a small act of kindness.
Categories:
Society & Culture
