Royal Rainmaking Department Deploys Aircraft to Combat PM2.5 in Bangkok

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, accompanied by advisor Pornprom Vikitset and sustainability executives, visited Hua Hin Airport in Prachuap Khiri Khan to observe the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department’s efforts to tackle PM2.5 pollution.

 

Governor Chadchart praised the initiative, describing it as vital but underappreciated, with operations based in Hua Hin but serving Bangkok and other provinces. The Royal Rainmaking Centre currently operates six bases nationwide, with three supporting Bangkok from Hua Hin, Rayong, and Kanchanaburi. A total of 10 aircraft are dedicated to PM2.5 reduction in Bangkok.

 

The initiative stems from atmospheric research conducted by the department. Chanti Dechyothin, an expert in applied atmospheric science, explained that instead of inducing rain, which can worsen pollution, the programme focuses on creating and nurturing clouds to absorb and dissipate PM2.5 particles. This approach builds on the principles of royal rainmaking while incorporating new methods, including reducing temperature inversion layers in the atmosphere.

 

Temperature inversion, where warmer air traps cooler air beneath, acts as a lid that prevents PM2.5 particles from dispersing. To address this, the department uses two techniques: spraying water to lower temperatures and scattering dry ice to create channels for the particles to rise and dissipate. Aircraft execute these tasks in two patterns, spiral formations to carve out channels and zigzag patterns for broader coverage.

 

The results have been remarkable. Data from operations between 2 December 2024 and 3 January 2025 indicate that PM2.5 levels in areas treated with dry ice have reduced by 70%, with pollution levels decreasing by 50% in comparison to untreated areas.

 

Challenges include navigating Bangkok’s congested airspace, dominated by commercial flights. The department has coordinated with the Royal Thai Air Force and the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand to establish safe flight paths, marking the first time in history that the rainmaking team has conducted operations in Bangkok.

 

During the visit, Governor Chadchart participated in an online meeting with teams addressing PM2.5 pollution in other provinces, including Phrae, Rayong, Kanchanaburi, and Chiang Mai. The meeting reviewed results from December 2024 and outlined daily plans, including air quality assessments using SKA350 aircraft.

 

“PM2.5 pollution is not an issue for any one person, it requires a collective effort,” said Governor Chadchart. “Many people sacrifice time away from their homes to address this problem, often without recognition. I thank all sectors and the Royal Rainmaking Department for their dedication. Bangkok stands ready to support these efforts to ensure effective results.”

 

-- 2025-01-05

 

 

[KireB]

You would assume a pilot sees all the smoke plumes. Easy fix, just enforce no-burning laws.

[mdr224]

Bunch of nonsense. The smoke is there for a reason. Dont <deleted> with the planet or there will be consequences 

[Briggsy]

Absolute back to front logic and window-dressing. This will have zero effect over the year.

 

The government knows that an unhappy Bangkok has to be avoided so they throw this out to pretend it will make a difference.

[Will B Good]

8 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

The results have been remarkable. Data from operations between 2 December 2024 and 3 January 2025 indicate that PM2.5 levels in areas treated with dry ice have reduced by 70%, with pollution levels decreasing by 50% in comparison to untreated areas.

 

They are truly (and suspiciously) remarkable.......I wonder over what kind of area they are talking about having enjoyed these improvements?

 

Why would rain make pollution worse?

[hotchilli]

On 1/5/2025 at 3:47 AM, Georgealbert said:

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, accompanied by advisor Pornprom Vikitset and sustainability executives, visited Hua Hin Airport in Prachuap Khiri Khan to observe the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department’s efforts to tackle PM2.5 pollution.

Somehow I don't think that's the real solution..

[newbee2022]

20 hours ago, Will B Good said:

Why would rain make pollution worse?

...because all the dust will come down with the rain. Easy to understand, isn't it?

[lordgrinz]

This is like pissing on a forest fire, they need to rethink, or just think.

[fondue zoo]

 

They are doing it wrong, you have to get all the particles at one time, from the top down.

 

 

 

 

 

[Woke to Sounds of Horking]

Sounds like a conspiracy theory.

 

No one can control the weather...

 

No one can make it rain with technology...

 

Yeah. Just a conspiracy.

[Woke to Sounds of Horking]

2 minutes ago, fondue zoo said:

They are doing it wrong, you have to get all the particles at one time, from the top down.

Truly awful film.  A Golan Globus Production.

 

Pity Supe couldn't have done that at Chernobyl.

[lordgrinz]

6 minutes ago, Woke to Sounds of Horking said:

Sounds like a conspiracy theory.

 

No one can control the weather...

 

No one can make it rain with technology...

 

Yeah. Just a conspiracy.

 

The next Thai brain fart , Alchemy.

[Mr Meeseeks]

1 hour ago, lordgrinz said:

 

The next Thai brain fart , Alchemy.

 

 

[black tabby12345]

Bkk's ever worsening air pollution since early 2000s.

BTS and subway built in order to ease world's worst traffic congestion and smog.

 

Still, capital's air quality is everting to its old state.

Thanks to former Thaksin and his associates' regime: Encouraging the poor to buy cars.

The same Bulls*iter is now boasting Thai debt will be cleared in 2 years.

 

Ignorance(of the population)  is   bliss(to the ruling class).

Occasional handout of small money turns the voter  Yes Man.

 

[Will B Good]

4 hours ago, newbee2022 said:

...because all the dust will come down with the rain. Easy to understand, isn't it?

 

.....and washed away with the rain into the drains.......leaving the air cleaner.....easy to understand with a brain cell.

 

From Chat GTP

 

 

Yes, rain naturally cleans the air of pollutants like dust, pollen, smoke particles, and even some gaseous pollutants through processes known as wet deposition and scavenging. Here’s how it works:

 

1. Mechanisms of Air Cleaning by Rain:

1. Washout (Rainout):

• Process: Raindrops falling through the atmosphere collide with airborne particles (dust, soot, pollen).

• The particles stick to the droplets and are carried down to the ground when the rain falls.

• Effectiveness: Very effective at removing large particles and water-soluble pollutants.

2. Condensation Nuclei Removal:

• Process: Pollutants, especially fine particles, often serve as nuclei around which water vapor condenses to form raindrops or cloud droplets.

• Once the droplets grow large enough, they fall as rain, carrying the particles with them.

• Example: Sulfates, nitrates, and other aerosols are effectively captured this way.

3. Gaseous Pollutant Absorption:

• Process: Some gases, like sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), dissolve in raindrops, forming weak acids (e.g., sulfuric acid or nitric acid).

• This contributes to acid rain, which removes the gases from the atmosphere but can damage ecosystems.

 

2. What Pollutants Are Removed?

• Particulate Matter (PM):

• Fine particles (PM2.5) and larger particles (PM10) including dust, smoke, and pollen.

• Soluble Gases:

• Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ).

• Organic Compounds:

• Some volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can dissolve in raindrops.

• Pollen and Biological Material:

• Allergens like pollen grains are efficiently washed away.

 

3. Limitations of Rain Cleaning the Air:

• Not Effective for Gases Like Carbon Monoxide (CO):

• Insoluble gases, such as CO and methane (CH₄), are not easily absorbed by rain.

• Temporary Effect:

• Air pollution may rebuild quickly after the rain stops, especially in urban areas with heavy traffic and industrial activity.

• Acid Rain Concerns:

• Pollutants absorbed by rain may create acid rain, which can harm soil, water bodies, and vegetation.

• Particle Size Matters:

• Very fine particles (<0.1 microns) may remain suspended and not be captured effectively by raindrops.

 

4. Observations After Rain:

• Cleaner Air and Fresher Smell:

• After a heavy rain, the atmosphere often feels fresher due to the removal of dust and aerosols.

• Reduced Visibility Hazards:

• Haze caused by pollutants often disappears after rainfall.

• Enhanced Plant Growth:

• Dust-free leaves and dissolved nutrients can improve photosynthesis in plants.

 

Conclusion:

 

Rain is a natural cleanser for the air, effectively removing dust, pollen, and water-soluble pollutants. However, it’s not a perfect solution, as it cannot eliminate insoluble gases or ultrafine particles entirely. While rain temporarily improves air quality, persistent pollution sources may cause levels to rebound quickly.

[newbee2022]

39 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

 

.....and washed away with the rain into the drains.......leaving the air cleaner.....easy to understand with a brain cell.

 

From Chat GTP

 

 

Yes, rain naturally cleans the air of pollutants like dust, pollen, smoke particles, and even some gaseous pollutants through processes known as wet deposition and scavenging. Here’s how it works:

 

1. Mechanisms of Air Cleaning by Rain:

1. Washout (Rainout):

• Process: Raindrops falling through the atmosphere collide with airborne particles (dust, soot, pollen).

• The particles stick to the droplets and are carried down to the ground when the rain falls.

• Effectiveness: Very effective at removing large particles and water-soluble pollutants.

2. Condensation Nuclei Removal:

• Process: Pollutants, especially fine particles, often serve as nuclei around which water vapor condenses to form raindrops or cloud droplets.

• Once the droplets grow large enough, they fall as rain, carrying the particles with them.

• Example: Sulfates, nitrates, and other aerosols are effectively captured this way.

3. Gaseous Pollutant Absorption:

• Process: Some gases, like sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), dissolve in raindrops, forming weak acids (e.g., sulfuric acid or nitric acid).

• This contributes to acid rain, which removes the gases from the atmosphere but can damage ecosystems.

 

2. What Pollutants Are Removed?

• Particulate Matter (PM):

• Fine particles (PM2.5) and larger particles (PM10) including dust, smoke, and pollen.

• Soluble Gases:

• Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ).

• Organic Compounds:

• Some volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can dissolve in raindrops.

• Pollen and Biological Material:

• Allergens like pollen grains are efficiently washed away.

 

3. Limitations of Rain Cleaning the Air:

• Not Effective for Gases Like Carbon Monoxide (CO):

• Insoluble gases, such as CO and methane (CH₄), are not easily absorbed by rain.

• Temporary Effect:

• Air pollution may rebuild quickly after the rain stops, especially in urban areas with heavy traffic and industrial activity.

• Acid Rain Concerns:

• Pollutants absorbed by rain may create acid rain, which can harm soil, water bodies, and vegetation.

• Particle Size Matters:

• Very fine particles (<0.1 microns) may remain suspended and not be captured effectively by raindrops.

 

4. Observations After Rain:

• Cleaner Air and Fresher Smell:

• After a heavy rain, the atmosphere often feels fresher due to the removal of dust and aerosols.

• Reduced Visibility Hazards:

• Haze caused by pollutants often disappears after rainfall.

• Enhanced Plant Growth:

• Dust-free leaves and dissolved nutrients can improve photosynthesis in plants.

 

Conclusion:

 

Rain is a natural cleanser for the air, effectively removing dust, pollen, and water-soluble pollutants. However, it’s not a perfect solution, as it cannot eliminate insoluble gases or ultrafine particles entirely. While rain temporarily improves air quality, persistent pollution sources may cause levels to rebound quickly.

Sorry, you didn't understand 

[Will B Good]

2 minutes ago, newbee2022 said:

Sorry, you didn't understand 

 

?

[PETERTHEEATER]

On 1/4/2025 at 8:47 PM, Georgealbert said:

........and scattering dry ice .........

Striving for net zero by scattering carbon dioxide......😋

[Crossy]

23 minutes ago, PETERTHEEATER said:

Striving for net zero by scattering carbon dioxide......😋

 

Yeah, I always thought they used silver-iodide (AgI) for cloud seeding.

[Yagoda]

The last time I rode through SaKeo and Chachaengsao (two weeks ago) the road crews were burning the medians and shoulders. 

[Gobbler]

On 1/5/2025 at 7:54 AM, mdr224 said:

Bunch of nonsense. The smoke is there for a reason. Dont <deleted> with the planet or there will be consequences 

Impressive, you turned it into a climate change platform.  It's too bad your statement is clueless. Farmers burning sugar cane is not climate change.