Cloud precipitation physics and weather modification are mutually dependent; cloud precipitation physics provides a theoretical basis for weather modification, and weather modification is an important application field of cloud physics. Currently, the weather modification scale and funding in China have reached the world’s highest levels, and a project for weather modification is under construction. In this paper, the authors briefly review the progress of research work and think further development of the weather modification in the new situation, which is of great practical significance.
During recent decades, China has conducted field observations of a series of cloud and precipitation, in addition to field testing of weather modification. Research in cloud precipitation physics and weather modification theories and technology have progressed, and simulation research levels for cloud models and meso-scale numerical models have advanced significantly. We have made significant progress in the research of cloud and precipitation physical processes, precipitation mechanisms, cloud microphysical structure, cloud water resources and precipitation enhancement potential evaluation, seed condition prediction, and catalyst technology.
Finally, this paper reports that current weather modification studies should include stronger core technology research of weather modification, and we suggest the need for further study of scientific questions relative to cloud and precipitation physics.