US-Israeli attack ignites oil facility in Tehran, resulting in substantial fires and black smoke on March 8.
Fatemeh Bahrami/Anadolu via Getty Images
On March 8, black smoke enveloped northern Iran as U.S. and Israeli airstrikes continued, leading to alarming health concerns for civilians in Tehran.
What Happened?
In the early hours of March 8, U.S. and Israeli forces launched strikes targeting Iranian oil facilities for the first time since the conflict erupted, igniting massive fires in four oil storage centers and an oil transfer hub in Tehran and Alborz province.
As flames illuminated the night sky, thick black smoke descended over the city, with ash and soot blanketing surfaces. Alarmingly, residents reported dark rain falling, raising concerns after a prolonged drought. Authorities alerted locals about potential acid rain, as many experienced sore throats and burning eyes.
The black rain likely originated from smoke inhaled during these fires. When moisture falls into such polluted air, it can carry harmful particulates to the ground.
This scenario poses significant environmental and health risks, as scientists remain uncertain about the smoke’s chemical makeup, according to Anna Hansell from the University of Leicester.
Composition of the Black Rain
In contrast to regular gasoline, the oil involved was likely less refined and created a more complex mixture of harmful particles when burned. This smoke could contain toxic substances, according to Hansell.
Key components potentially include burnt carbon, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, sulfur, and nitrogen compounds. The combustion process releases sulfur and nitrogen oxides that, when combined with moisture, can produce acid rain.
This environmental disaster could generate smog levels far more severe than those experienced in mid-20th century London. “The scale of this event is concerning,” Hansell remarked.
Secondary pollutants from the strike—such as fragments of concrete and plastic—could contribute to the overall toxicity of the atmosphere.
Health Risks
If this black rain contaminates water supplies, it could lead to gastrointestinal issues like abdominal pain and diarrhea. Furthermore, the acid rain’s effects on skin and eyes are alarming, as already reported by some locals.
However, respiratory health may be the greatest danger. Inhalation of fine particulate matter poses serious health risks, as the composition becomes less important than the quantity inhaled.
“Skin contact with rain can be washed off, but inhaling smoke can be far more dangerous,” Hansell cautioned. “Fine particles can permeate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increasing risks for chronic diseases.”
Accumulation of toxins in the environment may also contaminate local food sources, leading to long-term health threats.
Regional Impact
While larger particles may settle quickly, smaller harmful particles can travel vast distances via wind currents, potentially affecting air quality as far away as Washington, D.C. As winds shift, smoke from the fire could drift into neighboring countries as well.
It is advised that residents of Iran remain indoors to minimize exposure. If outdoors, wearing masks and goggles is recommended to prevent acid rain exposure.
Individuals should be vigilant about drinking water quality, seeking alternatives if they notice unusual tastes or dark particles.
Other countries should be alert to potential fallout, and health officials will likely issue warnings regarding air quality if necessary.
“The magnitude of environmental devastation doesn’t acknowledge borders,” Hansell warned. “What contaminates one area could migrate, affecting many.”}
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Source: www.newscientist.com
