For years, scientists have experimented with engineering techniques that can safely modify rainfall. But experts say the technology isn't capable of causing extreme, sudden flooding.

Rumors about National Weather Service cuts, cloud seeding, rescues and more spread online following the deadly July 2025 floods in central Texas.

Several online pundits and “influencers” continue to claim that excessive rainfall and flash flooding in Texas was caused by weather manipulation and cloud seeding operations. Meteorologists overwhelmingly reject these claims,

All clouds need “seeds” called condensation nuclei or ice nuclei to properly develop. This could be a speck of dust, clay or pollen in the atmosphere. There are several temperature, moisture and air motion processes that come into play. However, ice nuclei are very important for the formation of ice crystals in the upper part of clouds.

The catastrophic flood in Central Texas has put cloud seeding under the microscope. FOX 26 Houston Chief Meteorologist Mike Iscovitz explains what it is and why it did not cause the deadly flooding.

According to the GAO, states with active cloud seeding programs in 2024 are California, Nevada, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas and North Dakota.

Texas does issue cloud seeding licenses. However, there's no scientific evidence that the process can create or worsen storms.

Kandiss Taylor, a MAGA candidate running for Georgia's House seat, is facing backlash for spreading conspiracy theories about the flash floods in Texas.