Iranian authorities have issued a public health warning after airstrikes by the United States and Israel on fuel storage facilities in Tehran caused severe air pollution in the city.
According to Iran’s Department of Environment, the attacks released large amounts of toxic pollutants into the atmosphere, significantly worsening air quality across the capital.
Officials advised residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities in order to reduce exposure to the harmful substances.
The Iranian Red Crescent Society also confirmed that explosions at the fuel depots released dangerous chemicals into the air, including hydrocarbons, sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides. These pollutants can be harmful when inhaled and may pose serious health risks.
Authorities warned that the chemicals could mix with rainfall and produce highly acidic rain capable of causing skin irritation, chemical burns and severe lung damage.
Residents were therefore instructed to keep their doors and windows closed and wear face masks if they must go outside. Thick black smoke from the burning fuel depots has reportedly covered parts of Tehran.
The Red Crescent also cautioned citizens to avoid contact with rainfall following the incident, as some early reports described the rain as “black and oily.”
If anyone comes into contact with such rain, authorities advised them not to rub the affected area but instead wash it immediately with running cold water. Contaminated clothing should also be removed quickly and sealed in a bag.
Meanwhile, fires caused by the strikes on the oil storage facilities were still burning as of Sunday, continuing to release heavy smoke into the city and prompting ongoing health warnings for residents.
