Bangkok (NNT/VNA) - Thailand, now ranked first in the world for weather modification, continues to expand its royal rainmaking programme to combat drought and support agriculture nationwide, according to Rachen Silparaya, Director-General of the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation.

The country’s success has drawn international interest, though implementation abroad remains limited due to the technical expertise required and dependence on favourable weather conditions like high humidity and suitable cloud formations.

Typical operations involve three aircraft: the first initiates cloud seeding, the second enhances cloud development, and the third triggers rainfall. Using only one aircraft to perform all three steps in separate flights reduces the chances of success, while simultaneous operations increase the probability of rainfall. Each aircraft requires a crew of at least seven people.

From February 23 to August 26, 2025, the department conducted 2,065 rainmaking flights across 161 days, achieving rainfall in over 95% of operations. The effort helped ease drought conditions on more than 141 million rai of farmland in 63 provinces.

To improve efficiency, five dry ice production plants—each capable of producing one ton per hour—are being built in Tak, Phitsanulok, Khon Kaen, Buriram, and Phetchaburi provinces, and are expected to be completed by early October.

Concerns about the safety of artificial rainwater have been addressed through quality tests showing no difference from natural rain. The water meets World Health Organisation standards for drinking, Food and Agriculture Organisation guidelines for agricultural use, and Thai national standards, making it safe for consumption and general use without health or environmental risks.

ꦏ While some countries, such as China, use rockets to disperse chemicals into clouds, this method has drawbacks. Although less costly and faster in mountainous or high-risk areas, rockets lack precision, cannot adjust mid-flight, and may pose legal or safety hazards. Thailand’s complex terrain and proximity to neighboring countries make aircraft-based operations more suitable./.