TechCrunch Startup News A cloud seeding startup did not cause the Texas floods
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Jul 15, 2025 The discussion tackles the wild misconceptions about cloud seeding and its alleged connection to the recent Texas floods. Scientists set the record straight, explaining that cloud seeding operations had no significant impact on the flooding. The episode dives into the science behind the weather, emphasizing the sheer volume of water in major storms compared to the minimal influence of cloud interventions. Conspiracy theories are thoroughly debunked, shedding light on the facts.
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How Cloud Seeding Works
- Cloud seeding works by spraying particles like silver iodide that mimic ice crystals, causing supercooled water droplets to freeze and grow larger until they fall as precipitation.
- It mainly benefits orographic clouds near mountains but has minimal effect on short-lived cumulus clouds typical in summer Texas.
Cloud Seeding’s Scientific Foundation
- Cloud seeding is a long-established practice dating back to the 1950s with proven physical principles and scientific study.
- Recent technological advances have allowed for better evaluation of its effectiveness.
Idaho Cloud Seeding Success Story
- In Idaho, researchers seeded clouds for just over two hours and increased precipitation by 186 million gallons.
- This is valuable for water reservoirs and hydroelectric power but insignificant compared to large storms.