Chinese scientists from the Beijing Weather Modification Office successfully created artificially generated rainfall, in order to help wash a layer of sand and dust off Beijing due to drought.

The artificial rainfall brought a total of 9-11.2 mm (about four-tenths of an inch) of rain to Beijing.

Earlier in the year, scientists also made another rainstorm which helped clear the air after massive dust storms. People are still very skeptical about the success and effectiveness of the artificial rainfall in China.

A total of 163 pieces of cigarette-like sticks containing silver iodide were burnt and seven rocket shells were launched in 6 districts and counties Thursday afternoon, which resulted in the heaviest rainfall in Beijing this spring.

This news article was written on May 7, 2006, quoting Xinhua News.