“Black Rain” Reported in Iran Raises Health Concerns

A rare phenomenon called “black rain” has been reported in parts of Iran following fires at oil facilities.

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of serious public health risks due to polluted rainfall.

What is Black Rain?

• Rainfall contaminated with soot, ash, oil droplets or industrial pollutants.
• Occurs when raindrops absorb pollutants from the atmosphere (atmospheric scavenging).
• Appears dark, oily or black in colour.

Causes of Black Rain

• Oil fires and refinery explosions releasing hydrocarbons and soot.
• Wildfires producing dense smoke.
• Industrial pollution events.
• Volcanic eruptions or nuclear fallout.

Why WHO Issued a Warning

• Black rain contains toxic particles like black carbon and hydrocarbons.
• May include ....