The sheer destruction caused by this unprecedented tragedy is heartbreaking. As Texans, our hearts go out to our neighbors who are suffering, and we will do whatever we can to help lessen their burden.
Cloud seeding operations in Texas only target small to moderate, isolated convective clouds that can enhance beneficial rainfall. To protect public safety, TDLR regulations do not allow seeding of severe storms or those that could produce excessive rainfall.
After an investigation of flight records and program documentation, TDLR finds that cloud seeding operations in southwest Texas did not contribute in any way to the rains caused when the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry went onshore on Mexicoโs southern Gulf coast and moved northeast across Mexico and into western and southwestern Texas.
The South Texas Weather Modification Association seeded a storm in Karnes County โ approximately 130 miles southeast of Kerr County — on July 2, 2025. The clouds targeted were small and isolated and completely dissipated by 4 p.m. on July 2.
Scientific studies have shown that, at best, cloud seeding causes an average of a 10-percent increase in precipitation. Under ideal conditions, cloud-seeding projects can provide minimal to moderate enhancement to existing moisture-bearing clouds – not violent storms or floods.
TDLR is responsible for making sure that weather modification activities are conducted with proper oversight and in accordance with permit conditions and to providing the public with accurate information about the weather modification program.