Artificial rain disrupts concert experience in Xuzhou, sparking discussion

By Global Times Published: Jun 24, 2024 09:44 PM

The artificial rain recently used for drought relief in Xuzhou, East China’s Jiangsu Province on Friday night affected the audience’s experience at Chinese singer Xue Zhiqian’s concert, sparking widespread discussion. Officials from the Xuzhou meteorological administration explained the necessity and timing of this artificial rain operation on Saturday.

According to media reports, Xue’s concert at the Xuzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium attracted thousands of fans on spot. It began to rain shortly after the concert began, catching many fans unprepared. Following the concert, revelations that the rain had been artificially induced sparked debates among fans.

…In response, Yan Wuguang, director of the Xuzhou weather modification center, told China News Weekly that the timing of the artificial rain was not decided by the meteorological department or anyone else. “It’s impossible to satisfy everyone and we have to consider the drought situation and focus on ensuring agricultural drought resistance,” Yan added.