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In the wake of recent air strikes targeting oil facilities in Tehran, scientists have reported alarming levels of pollution, described as “unprecedented” in scale. As conflict escalates in the region, the World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns about the serious health risks posed to the city’s nearly 10 million residents, exacerbated by thick clouds of smoke and a phenomenon known as “black rain.”
Air Quality Deterioration in the Capital
On 28 February, a series of US-Israeli air strikes commenced, leading to confirmed attacks on at least four oil facilities around Tehran. Satellite imagery has revealed extensive smoke plumes emanating from these sites, with some facilities still ablaze days later. Residents have reported a pervasive smell of burning and an oppressive layer of smog that has obscured sunlight, creating a grim atmosphere in the city.
Recent images captured on 9 March by BBC Verify show two major oil facilities engulfed in flames, while emergency responders assessed damage at the Shahran depot and the Tehran oil refinery. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed responsibility for strikes against “fuel depots” near Tehran, but the Pentagon has not commented on the situation.
The Environmental Impact of Oil Fires
The destruction of oil facilities poses significant environmental hazards. Refineries contain a wide array of chemicals, and incomplete combustion can lead to the release of harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, soot, and various hydrocarbons. Additionally, oil fires can emit sulphur and nitrogen oxides. These substances can react with rainwater to form acids, further degrading air quality and potentially contaminating local water supplies.
In a striking account, a young Tehran resident described her experience: “I can’t see the Sun. There is a horrible smoke. It’s still there. I’m very tired.” This sentiment reflects an acute awareness among the population of the immediate dangers posed by the ongoing conflict.
The Phenomenon of ‘Black Rain’
Reports from Tehran residents detail instances of “black rain,” a term used to describe precipitation that is heavily polluted and appears dark due to soot and other contaminants. This rare occurrence typically results from high concentrations of airborne pollutants, which adhere to raindrops as they fall. Dr. Akshay Deoras, a research scientist at the University of Reading, noted that such pollution levels are “definitely unusual” and unlike anything seen in typical urban smog scenarios.
The combination of various pollutants resulting from the attacks has led to a unique and dangerous environmental situation. Eloise Marais, a professor at University College London, compared it to the aftermath of severe industrial accidents, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the current crisis.
Health Risks and Long-Term Implications
The WHO has expressed grave concerns regarding the health implications of the environmental crisis. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the organisation’s director-general, cautioned that the contamination of air, water, and food could have severe consequences, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.
Experts warn that exposure to elevated levels of particulate matter can lead to immediate respiratory issues and potential long-term health effects, including an increased risk of cancer. Doug Weir, director of the Conflict and Environment Observatory, underscored the uniqueness of this situation, noting that such attacks have not previously occurred in such a densely populated area.
As weather forecasts predict rain and stronger winds in the coming days, there is hope that these conditions may help disperse some of the pollutants. However, the threat remains, as contaminants can infiltrate waterways or become airborne again once the ground dries.
Why it Matters
The unfolding crisis in Tehran is not merely an environmental disaster; it is a public health emergency with implications that extend far beyond the immediate vicinity of the attacks. As the situation develops, the potential for long-lasting damage to both the environment and the health of millions underscores the urgent need for international attention and intervention. The events in Tehran serve as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between conflict and environmental health, raising critical questions about the future of urban safety in war-torn regions.
