TEHRAN: Residents of Iran’s capital witnessed an unusual and alarming phenomenon as dark, oily rain reportedly fell from the sky following heavy bombardment of nearby oil facilities.
Authorities have warned the public to remain indoors because of the potential health dangers.
Reports indicate that the situation in Tehran and nearby regions worsened after Israeli airstrikes late Saturday targeted several oil-related installations. The strikes caused massive fires and released thick black smoke that quickly spread across the city.
The dense smoke formed heavy clouds over the capital, making daytime conditions appear almost like night. Visibility dropped significantly, forcing many drivers to switch on their headlights even during daylight hours.
International outlets, including CNN, reported that rainfall in parts of Tehran appeared unusually dark and oily, likely due to airborne oil residue and pollutants mixing with rainwater.
The Iranian Red Crescent Society has warned residents that the air currently contains harmful substances such as hydrocarbons, sulfur compounds, and nitrogen oxides. Officials say these chemicals could lead to acidic rainfall, which may irritate the skin and cause serious respiratory problems.
Health authorities have advised citizens to stay inside their homes and avoid exposure to the contaminated rain and polluted air to reduce the risk of illness.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes, accusing Israel of intentionally targeting civilian and industrial infrastructure, including the Shahran oil storage facility.
Officials stated that the resulting toxic pollution has placed the health of millions of people at risk, describing the situation as both an environmental crisis and a humanitarian concern.
The National Iranian Oil Company confirmed that the attacks struck five separate facilities in Tehran and the neighboring Alborz province, leaving four workers dead, among them two tanker truck drivers.
The latest escalation in tensions across the Middle East has also impacted global energy markets. Brent crude prices jumped by 8.5 percent to $92.69 per barrel, the sharpest rise recorded since 2023. Analysts warn the surge could strain global supply chains and contribute to rising inflation worldwide.
