TITLE:
Weathering the Storm: Mitigating Hurricanes with Ground-Based CCN and Lightning
AUTHORS:
Venkata Chaganti, Murali Krishna Cheruvu
KEYWORDS:
IAN 2022, Hurricane Mitigation, Lightning, Aerosol, Cloud Condensation Nuclei (CCN)
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Geoscience and Environment Protection,
Vol.11 No.12,
December
8,
2023
ABSTRACT: This research introduces a groundbreaking methodology aimed at mitigating
storm and hurricane intensity through the application of a ground-based,
manually operated Cloud Condensation Nuclei (CCN) Generator. To meet the demand
for more comprehensive context and rationale, this study explores the escalating
challenges presented by the growing intensity of hurricanes, exemplified by
Hurricane IAN (2022). The controlled release of environmentally friendly
aerosols into the atmosphere, achieved by combusting selected wood pieces and
organic edible materials, is a pivotal response to the escalating threat of
extreme weather events. By generating CCN, the novel approach seeks to augment
positive lightning in the eyewall, providing a potential solution to the
intensification of hurricanes. Results illustrate the successful implementation
of the methodology, with released aerosols effectively reaching the clouds for
seeding, thus contributing to the modification of convection in the outer wall
of Hurricane IAN and consequent intensity reduction. Rigorous experiments,
incorporating considerations of various parameters such as wind patterns and
the experimental location in Sarasota City, emphasize the scientific rigor
applied to weakening Hurricane IAN. This comprehensive approach not only holds
promise in mitigating hurricane intensity but also sheds light on the potential
impact of cloud seeding in reducing the severity of future hurricanes,
addressing a critical need for sustainable solutions to climate-related
challenges.