Iranian authorities have warned that toxic pollutants released after recent airstrikes on fuel depots in Tehran have significantly worsened air quality and could pose serious health risks to residents.
In a statement on Sunday, the country’s department of environment said large volumes of pollutants entered the capital’s atmosphere following attacks by the United States and Israel on fuel storage facilities.
The agency urged residents of Tehran to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities and remain indoors as much as possible to reduce exposure.
ABC News reports that the Iranian Red Crescent Society also warned that explosions at the fuel tanks released toxic compounds, including hydrocarbons, as well as sulphur and nitrogen oxides, into the air.
According to the organisation, the chemicals could combine with rainfall to produce highly acidic precipitation capable of causing chemical burns and severe lung damage.
Authorities advised residents to stay indoors, wear face masks if available and keep doors and windows closed as thick black smoke continues to blanket parts of the city.
The Red Crescent also cautioned citizens to avoid contact with any rainfall following the incident, noting that early reports described rain droplets as “black and oily”.
It warned that if citizens come into contact with such rain, they should not rub the affected area but wash it with running cold water, change contaminated clothing immediately and seal the clothes in a bag.
Meanwhile, fires triggered by the strikes on oil reservoirs in Tehran on Saturday were still burning as of today.
The attacks reportedly caused extensive smoke to spread across the city, prompting local authorities to issue public health advisories for residents.
