08.03.2026 14:41
Attacks by the US and Israel on energy facilities in Iran targeted fuel depots in Tehran and its surroundings. Fires caused by leaking oil spread flames along major roads, creating images referred to as "fire rivers." After the attacks, oil rained down on the city following the rain. The Iranian Red Crescent warned citizens to "wear masks" against the risk of "toxic rain."
On the ninth day of the attacks by the USA and Israel on Iran, energy infrastructure was targeted. While heavy damage occurred at fuel depots in Tehran and its surroundings, fires broke out in some streets due to leaking oil mixing with the sewage system.
"RIVERS OF FIRE" FORMED
In the airstrikes conducted on the ninth day of the war, Iran's energy facilities were targeted. The Iranian Ministry of Oil confirmed that fuel depots located in three different regions, primarily in Kerej west of the capital Tehran, were hit. Following the attacks, it was reported that oil leaking from the depots mixed with the city's sewage, causing fires to spread on some streets. Images shared on social media showed flames advancing on Tehran's main roads, creating visuals described as "rivers of fire."
WARNING OF "TOXIC RAIN" FROM THE IRANIAN RED CRESCENT
After the explosions, the Iranian Red Crescent warned the public about the risk of "toxic rain" due to possible chemical reactions in the atmosphere. The organization stated that the rains could cause chemical burns on the skin and serious damage to the respiratory tract, urging citizens not to go outside during the rain. The statement emphasized that individuals outside should seek shelter in areas with concrete or metal roofs instead of under trees. It was also highlighted that areas exposed to the rain should be washed with cold water without delay, and clothing that came into contact should be stored in closed bags.
CALL TO "STAY HOME, WEAR A MASK"
Authorities warned citizens to stay home and wear masks, pointing out that oil residues could fall to the ground with the rain. The Iranian Red Crescent called for precautions, warning that the fuel tank explosions resulting from the overnight attacks by the USA-Israel on the oil facilities in the capital Tehran could lead to "toxic rain." The warning included the following statements:
"Such rain can cause chemical burns on the skin and damage to the lungs. Do not leave your home under any circumstances while it is raining after the explosions. If you are outside, immediately seek shelter under concrete or metal roofs, and avoid taking shelter under trees. If the rain touches your skin, do not rub the affected area under any circumstances and wash it only with continuously flowing cold water. Change clothes that got wet from the rain immediately and place them in a closed bag."
FUEL SALES IN TEHRAN HALTED
Due to logistical problems following the attacks, the Tehran Governor's Office imposed restrictions on fuel distribution throughout the city. Initially, the daily purchase limit with personal fuel cards was reduced from 30 liters to 20 liters. Later, an Iranian official announced that fuel sales in the capital had been temporarily halted completely.