In Cyprus, authorities are urged to speed up the launch of an artificial rain induction program due to water shortages

Amid a growing water crisis in Cyprus, companies working in meteorological technologies are calling on the Ministry of Agriculture to accelerate the launch of a pilot program for artificial rain induction.

According to Heraklis Pantelis, director of Eastmed Weather Modification Ltd., the company submitted three projects to the ministry back in 2024–2025, but has not yet received an official response. The first request was sent in June 2024 but was rejected in January 2025. After that, specialists prepared updated pilot programs with the participation of atmospheric scientist Daniel Rosenfeld.

Director of the Meteorological Service, Philippos Tymvios, confirmed that discussions on the possible launch of the program are ongoing. He noted that for a decision to be made, the state needs data confirming the effectiveness of the technology specifically under Cyprus’s climate and terrain conditions.

Pantelis warns that delays could lead to serious consequences for agriculture and water supply. According to him, water levels in reservoirs continue to drop, and farmers are already being warned of the risk of being unable to plant seasonal crops.