Effects of hail suppression operational programs on hail frequency and environment in Moldova

Abstract

Hailstorms pose a significant threat to all development sectors of the Republic of Moldova. Despite the availability of the intensive hail suppression operational programs the issues of their efficiency are very relevant for many years. In spite of expectations and previous claims the research findings show that the hail suppression activity in Moldova leads to increase of hail incidence rate (statistically tested at the 0.05 confidence level). Active influence on the hail formation processes has also environmental implications leading to the increased pollution of the environment by the active anti-hail components in the protected areas. Given the controversial effects and missing reliable estimates of the economic benefits, as well as environmental implications, additional investments for developing of the anti hail operational programs is not recommended.