Cloud Seeding In Sarawak Considered Between 3 To 5 September
KUCHING: A cloud seeding operation in Sarawak is being considered to be implemented between 3 to 5 September to help increase dam water levels following the expected prolonged hot and dry weather.
Sarawak Deputy Premier and Chairman of the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said that the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) is currently assessing the appropriate weather conditions for the operation, while a meeting on 1 September will determine the appropriateness of its implementation.
"Following the expected dry weather conditions, Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) have requested that additional cloud seeding operations be carried out if the weather conditions permit.
"JPBNS has also requested additional support for cloud seeding operations from the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) last July.
"However, the current weather conditions have not yet produced suitable cloud formation for the implementation of the operation," he said in a statement by SDMC on Wednesday.
He explained, according to SEB, the cloud seeding operation carried out on 11 and 12 May, 19 and 20 June, and 21 June had a positive effect on dam water levels.
Meanwhile, MetMalaysia reported that the El Niño phenomenon is expected to become more pronounced in Sarawak between October to December 2026 and is likely to continue at least until April 2027, in addition to potentially reaching the level of 'Super El Niño' between September 2026 to January 2027.
Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah stressed that early preparation is crucial to face the possibility of prolonged dry weather and its effect on water levels.
He said SDMC will continue to monitor current developments and coordinate mitigation measures and follow-up actions with related agencies. -UKASnews
