WHO warns of 'black rain' in Iran

WHO says "black rain" and toxic substances dispersed after oil depot airstrikes affect the respiratory system, increasing cancer risk.

"Black rain and acid rain pose a real danger to the public, primarily affecting the respiratory system," Christian Lindmeier, spokesperson for the World Health Organization (WHO), stated at a press conference in Geneva on 10/3.

Last week, the Israeli military launched a series of attacks on Iran's fuel storage facilities. This marked a shift from targeting political and military objectives to civilian industrial infrastructure. Black smoke enveloped Tehran the next day, and the ensuing rain was mixed with oil, causing raindrops to appear black. Many residents reported immediate effects, experiencing suffocation and burning sensations in their eyes and lips.

Lindmeier noted that Tehran's advisory for residents to stay indoors was appropriate given the circumstances. The WHO is actively coordinating with Iranian officials to respond to the unfolding health emergency.

Black smoke billows after Israeli airstrikes on Iran's oil infrastructure in Tehran, 8/3. *Photo: AFP*

According to Lindmeier, the airstrikes resulted in the "large-scale dispersion of toxic hydrocarbons, sulfur oxides, and nitrogen compounds into the atmosphere." Inhaling or prolonged exposure to smoke and particulate matter from these substances can cause headaches, skin and eye irritation, and suffocation. Furthermore, the risk of certain cancers increases with prolonged exposure to specific compounds.

The oily rain turned many vehicles on Iran's streets black. Residents described the atmosphere as "like diluted tear gas." Images sent by WHO staff showed a sanitation worker cleaning black liquid outside the organization's office in Tehran on 8/3.

A sanitation worker cleans oil stains after the rain outside the WHO office in Tehran, 8/3. *Photo: Reuters*

Scientists explained that the "black rain" phenomenon results from a weather pattern moving into the area, causing rain to mix with airborne pollutants. This interaction leads to the visible dark precipitation.

"The black rain exposes the environmental consequences that residents are enduring," said Akshay Deoras, a scientist at the University of Reading. He warned that prolonged exposure to toxic air poses greater health risks. Deoras advised residents to protect themselves by staying indoors, wearing masks, and covering exposed skin when outside.

Deoras also stated that air quality could gradually improve over time. He added, "If there are no further airstrikes, the risk of exposure will decrease. If airstrikes continue, the situation will be alarming and warrants immediate attention."