"Cloud seeding" used to encourage rain just hours before fatal flooding in Australia

Australia's Tasmania government-owned energy company was on Friday asked to explain why "cloud seeding" was carried less than 24 hours before a vicious storm cell which caused widespread and fatal flooding throughout the state.

Hydro Tasmania conducted cloud seeding over the Derwent Valley on Sunday morning, less than a day before heavy rainfall caused record-breaking flooding across the state. The seeding occurred in the Derwent region where a man is still listed as missing in the fallout from the floods.

Cloud seeding is a technique used by the authorities to encourage rain to fall so that dam levels don't fall too low. It involves the addition of a substance to encourage the growth of ice crystals which then melt and cause raindrops.

Tasmania's Premier Will Hodgman said on Friday that Hydro Tasmania authorized cloud seeding on the Sunday morning even though heavy falls were forecast across the state on Monday and Tuesday.

"That's why we've sought the explanation from Hydro Tasmania as to those matters, the minister has sought that," he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Friday.

"It's certainly my expectation that will be provided at the earliest opportunity to respond to those matters."

Documents obtained by local media have revealed that the cloud seeding flight took place while flood warnings were in place.

A spokesperson from Hydro Tasmania refused to comment on the premier's inquiry, adding that it would be inappropriate before an investigation is completed.

"At this point Hydro Tasmania is not in a position to provide more information," the spokesperson told the ABC.

"Experience suggests that in the aftermath of a severe natural disaster such as this some form of government inquiry follows."

"In light of the unfortunate death of one person, and with grave fears for two people still missing, there is likely to be at least a coronial inquest."

Residents in the region have suffered thousands of dollars' worth of flood damage, while farmer have reported the loss of hundreds and sheep, cattle and crops.

The damage bill in the wake of the flooding is expected to rise to more than 80 million U.S dollars. Endit