Modeling Study on Optimal Convective Cloud Seeding in Rain Augmentation

To obtain optimal cloud seeding method, the sensitivities of different seeding methods like seeding locations, seeding time and seeding agent amount on cloud dynamical, microphysical and precipitation in a strong convective cloud was conducted by using a cloud model with AgI seeding process. The results indicate that the cloud microphysical variations responding to different seeding methods show large differences. The cloud seeding can apparently suppress the formation of cloud ice and enhance snow formation in cloud developing and mature stage in seeded cloud. This study recommends that the cloud seeding conducted in the maximum updraft and supercooled water regions in the convective cloud may maximize augmentation of surface precipitation.